More than 10% of Americans carpool to work, and as new college graduates in particular struggle to afford their own apartments, student loans, phone bills and gas, that number continues to climb, most notably in big cities. As we’re halfway through National Transportation Week, here’s a few tips on how you can make commuting with your family and friends a little easier.
Establish a Fair System: If one person gets stuck doing all the driving, the nerve-wracking parallel parking, and the paying for gas, tolls, and repairs, your carpool system isn’t going to last very long. Ensure that everyone does their share by creating a simple set of guidelines. Alternate who drives. Split the gas. If the driver refuses to accept payment, find a way to show your gratitude by buying them coffee each morning, taking them to lunch once a week, or getting them a few gift cards for car washes and oil changes.
Be On Time: Unlike driving to work on your own, running late when you’re part of a carpool will have a negative impact on everyone. Help your carpool buddies get to their jobs on time by leaving early enough if you’re the driver, and being ready to go when the car pulls up if you’re the passenger. Apps like Find My Friends can help you track where your carpool is in relation to you so there’s no surprises.
Respect the Car Owner: Different people have different rules they’d like to uphold inside their car. While it may be fine to hurriedly eat a powdered donut on the way to work in one car, it may be disrespectful in another’s car. Before eating, drinking, smoking, applying makeup, spraying perfume, or doing anything else that could impact the car’s air quality and cleanliness, ask for permission first.
Respect Other Passengers: Make the commute pleasant for everyone by refraining from actions that might bother others. Really use your head. In addition to things like not talking on your cell phone, texting with the sound on, or playing music loudly, you might want to refrain from eating your steak and egg breakfast sandwich if there’s a vegan in the car.
Obey the Law: As the driver of the carpool, it’s your responsibility to ensure you and others are all following the rules of the road. Don’t talk or text while driving. Don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Make sure everyone wears their seatbelt and drive safely. 🙂
