Ride Share Rules

Ridesharing reduces traffic and vehicle emissions.

Rideshare and carpooling are terms for commuters who share transportation--typically to work or school. Some corporations provide the vehicle like a van, some cities such as Kansas City have subsidized programs while other programs are more informal in communities. A rideshare program has benefits such as saving money on transportation costs, and air quality is improved with fewer vehicles on the road. With proper planning and following rules established for the benefit of all riders, a rideshare program can be very successful.

Gather Information

Establish each person's role. For example, is a person driving, sharing driving responsibilities or only a passenger? Establish rideshare days of the week, the number of people ridesharing, where and when to meet for pickup and drop off. Verify insurance for anyone driving a personal vehicle.

Obtain Agreement

Ridesharing costs such as parking must be agreed upon.

Set the expectations clearly before agreeing to a rideshare. Specific costs need to be determined and payment methods agreed upon. If one or two people use their personal cars, determine the contribution for the expense. Establish payment agreement for other costs such as tolls and parking. Determine the method for notification if someone isn't going to need a ride. Also determine the maximum wait time at a pickup location.

Interpersonal Rules

Open communication is vital to a long-term rideshare program. Food and drink use may depend on the driver's decision as the owner of the vehicle. The driver or group must decide on issues like smoking and heavy perfume use. The group must also decide what radio stations, if any, are acceptable.

Ongoing Considerations

Make sure to inform other people of schedule issues such as days off, vacation, doctor's appointments or other life events. Do not leave trash in the vehicle. If driving, make sure to follow all traffic laws. Don't make requests such as asking the group to stop for personal business. Don't engage in long cell phone calls. Refrain from intense conversation that may be offensive to others.

Testing

Once the rules have been established, agree to a specific length of time to test the program. Perhaps try the rideshare for a month and then long-term decisions can be made. Determine if any rules were overlooked or need to be modified.

References

• Mid-American Regional Council: Carpool Tips

Resources

• Environmental Protection Agency: Carpool Incentive Programs