RIDESHARING: THE ESSENTIALS
Cars are for driving full! Ridesharing, another word for carpooling, is one of the easiest, most effective ways to save money and cut pollution – a do-it-yourself transportation solution.
RIDESHARING ARRANGEMENTS
The key to successfully sharing rides is MAKING CLEAR AGREEMENTS. These can include:
Sharing cost: Any arrangement is fine, for giving rides as favors, to splitting gas plus cost for wear and tear costs – as long as everyone agrees. The IRS reimbursement rate is $0.55 a mile.
Sharing driving: Clarify who will be driving or if you will take turns.
Pick-up and Drop-off: Clarify times and locations, and how long to wait for someone before leaving.
Car culture: You may want to discuss music, food, fragrance, or other issues that can affect everyone in the vehicle.
Where can I go to find someone to share a ride with?
You might already know someone: Friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers may all be looking for ride sharing opportunities as well. Ask around, or put up a flyer at work or in your apartment building, mention something to your gym buddy.
New York State Department of Transportation rideshare website 511NY http://www.511ny.org/
This is a free program that matches you and other ride share participants with Carpools and Vanpools based on your needs.
Utica Craigslist
http://utica.craigslist.org/rid/
Connect with others locally to set up a rideshare wherever you need to go.
Stay Safe!
Don’t be afraid to ask for references.
You decide when and with whom to share rides with.
Determine the cost sharing before the ride takes place.
If you share rides and take turns driving you don’t need to exchange money.
