How to Support Auto Commuting

Auto commuting is the most popular means of driving to work, supplanting bicycling and public transport by a wide margin. But with spiking gas prices and the hassle of rush hour drives, it gets harder and harder to commute by car every day. You can support auto commuting by taking a creative approach to the problem and ensuring that the impact of the drive doesn't affect you as much as it otherwise might.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Organize a car pool. Numerous commuters already use car pools to get to work, and if there are coworkers in your area, you can support auto commuting by driving together. Set up a schedule among every participant to ensure that each driver shoulders an equal load and plan out ways to meet after work for the drive home.
2. Keep your car in peak condition. Cars with worn tires, engine trouble and older parts tend to perform less efficiently, which costs you more in gas and can lead to the increased chance of a breakdown. Have your car serviced on a regular basis and it will make auto commuting a lot smoother.
3. Drive a car with high gas mileage. Smaller cars use much less energy than bigger ones, which makes them a better choice for auto commuting. If you have a large car, consider purchasing a second one to use for your drive to work and save the big one for weekend trips and the like.
4. Look for a less-stressful route to work. Freeways can suck the souls out of commuters, adding to the pressures of work and wasting valuable time sitting in the car. See if you can find an alternate route that uses fewer main thoroughfares and makes for a more relaxing drive. Even if it doesn't save you significant time, the reduction in stress and anxiety will make your commute much more manageable.
5. Ask your employer about alternate work hours. Some bosses may allow you to come in earlier or later, working the same length of time on a schedule that doesn't force you to sit in rush hour traffic. The faster drive means more productivity when you arrive, as well as reduced energy use in the office by not running computers and other machinery during peak hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Auto commuting depends on a solid infrastructure and good road maintenance. If you want to support it, keep an eye on local bills authorizing more money for roads and services. They will definitely make a difference in your drive.