Whether it’s running children to school or taking colleagues to work, the carpool has become one of the big parts of working life. With the cost of parking and gas going up, people are choosing to save money by traveling to work or school with others in their neighborhood. If you’re running a carpool, or if you’re thinking of starting one, here are a few ideas to help you get a smooth operation in place.
Is Carpooling Right for You?
Before you decide to start a carpool, you need to think about whether it’s the best option for you. It could be that you want to help others in your neighborhood by saving them some money and maybe taking a little for gas from them. The only problem is if it will also meet your needs and responsibilities. If you’re leasing a car, you might have mileage penalties if you go over a certain limit, or another driver in your neighborhood may have a car that is always breaking down. By agreeing to start a carpool, will you be exceeding your mileage allowance and incurring penalties? The other thing to remember is that it might not be financially viable if you have to park somewhere that costs a lot of money and you haven’t made arrangements to share out this expense.
Accidents While Driving
Despite your best efforts, you might find that you’re involved in a car accident while carpooling. You need to have a vehicle with a good safety record because it won’t just be you involved. For the safety of your passengers, you need to make sure your vehicle is well maintained and safe. If you’re involved in an accident, you should find a car accident attorney in Florida or the state you’re in. You may also need to check with your insurance company to see if there is any additional cover needed.
Choosing the Right People
Being part of a carpool is more than just driving from one destination to another, you also need to be able to socialize with them. If you’re going to be with someone you don’t get along with, then this could make the situation challenging – however, carpooling can be a great way to meet people and strike up friendships with those in your neighborhood. It’s also a good way to build friendships at work with colleagues.
Being Reliable
If you’re going to be taking people to work and home each day again, then everyone involved has to be reliable. If you’re always working longer hours or getting held up in meetings, it might not be a good idea to start a carpool. Unless of course your neighbors are held up in the same meetings with you.
Starting a carpool can be a rewarding way to help others while getting some company on the trip into work or school. As long as you’re aware of the ground rules and you all get on well together, there is no reason why it shouldn’t go well.
