That is possible but I don't think anyone was getting on. I think the driver just saw people walking towards the door as he approached the bus stop and knew they wanted off. Or maybe someone else had already pulled the cord and I didn't notice. Either way, next time I'm on the bus I'll pay more attention. I have to admit I rarely take the bus. One thing I do know is that here in Cambridge after dusk you can pull the cord and get off anywhere you want as long as the driver can safely stop.