The CCES encourages everyone to carpool when possible. It is good for the bank account and puts less stress on our environment. Below are some carpooling tips.
See the ride board and find out who is carpooling from your area.
The Bottom Line – How Much $$$
Determine up front if there will be one vehicle and one driver who is reimbursed by all riders or if costs will be shared by everyone taking a turn at the wheel. If one vehicle and one driver is the choice, determine a fare based on gas and mileage. Agree on a payment schedule and stick to it.
On time or toodles!
Nothing can disrupt a happy car pool faster than chronically late riders or drivers. Establish a time schedule and pick-up points. Establish rules for latecomers and decide how long to wait. (Five minutes is standard.)
Smoking or not?
Unless everybody lights up, nobody lights up. Make sure you dispose of your smoking materials properly.
It’s a car, not a cafeteria!
Bottled beverages and coffee mugs with secure lids are OK. Eat breakfast at home.
Not everyone is a Metallica fan.
Make sure your radio is tuned to a station everyone can stand, or turn it off.
No Stopping – Anytime!
The golden rule of car pooling! Your commute together serves only one purpose – to travel to and from work or school. No scenic tours to the bank or dry cleaners. Everyone’s time is equally valuable. Do errands on your own time.
Flexibility is not just for gymnastics.
There will be inconveniences and unexpected obstacles. You may have to leave earlier than you are used to and arrive home later than normal. Others will be part of decision-making you did as a solitary driver. However, you will be saving greenbacks, developing friendships and contributing to the betterment of our environment. It’s a good trade off in the end.
The Back Up Plan ...
This is particularly important if your car pool has only one driver. Ensure everyone has home, work and cell phone numbers and agrees in advance what will happen in the event of illness, vacations or mechanical problems. It’s best to expect the unexpected. An automobile association membership can be a great investment for those rare occasions when the keys are locked in the car or a jump-start is needed.
Insurance – Make Sure You’re Covered
General liability protection usually covers passengers, but check your policy’s exceptions, exclusions and provisions to make sure car pooling is not excluded. Taking money for rides might be considered a shuttle service and subject you to insurance at a higher rate. If your rate increases, spread the cost equally among the riders.
Vehicle Maintenance
A poorly maintained car can consume between 15 and 50 percent more fuel than one that is properly maintained. A well-maintained vehicle will ensure a safe, reliable and comfortable ride that’s better for the environment. And take a look at your vehicle; does it need a date with a car vacuum?
Drive the speed limit
Unless you are carpooling with a car full of pregnant women in labor, slow down and use more caution than usual. You will save on gas, too!
The Little Things ...
Sometimes it is the little things that make a big difference. Consider the close proximity of your car pool partners before applying perfume or cologne in the morning. Many people are highly sensitive to certain smells and can become extremely uncomfortable. Use common sense when making seating arrangements - big people in the front, smaller people in the back.
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NOTE:
This service is provided solely to assist commuters in identifying potential car pool partners. Le Moyne College does not assess the suitability of individuals participating in any car pool programs and disclaims any liability in connection therewith.
It is solely your responsibility to notify your insurance provider of your intent to carry passengers and ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself and your passengers. Car pool rules obtained and modified from The Syracuse Post-Standard and the Web site www.carpool.ca.