Ridesharing Tips
Tips for successful Carpooling and Vanpooling
Below are some subjects to consider and discuss as a group when considering forming a carpool or vanpool. Agreement on certain topics can help you get started quickly and easily as well as avoid conflict and make your carpool experience a positive one for all involved.
Get to know your fellow carpoolers. - Meet prospective carpool partners for a cup of coffee or at a public place before driving together.
- Decide if a trial period is necessary to test compatibility between passengers
- If at any time you are not comfortable in your carpool, you are not obligated to continue
- Inform Go Vermont of changes in your carpool to remain eligible for your Guaranteed Ride Home benefit.
Discuss some key questions.
- How many days a week will you carpool/vanpool?
- How many passengers will there be.
- Who has a vehicle? If all passengers have a car, who will do the driving? Will it rotate? Some people like to establish primary and alternate drivers.
Establish the Rules of the Road
- Establish a driver/vehicle schedule and rideshare payment if necessary (to cover gasoline and maintenance costs).
- Designate the location of your pick-up and drop-off points.
- Agree, as a group, on how long past pick-up time the carpool will wait for a rider.
- Establish a contact list complete with home, work and cell numbers (include acceptable calling times in case of weather, change of plans, or emergency. If part of a larger group, this may include creating a “phone tree”.
- Agree on eating/drinking/smoking/cell phone policies (if you are in a vanpool, see VPSI, Inc. for guidelines).
- Decide as a group if the radio will be played and on what station.
- Agree on a personal errands policy.
Gas-saving Driving Techniques
- Drive with a “soft foot”, accelerating/decelerating smoothly
- Slow down – vehicles are most efficient at 50-55 mph.
- Maintain proper tire inflation and change air filter regularly
- Remove an unnecessary weight for your vehicle
- Use air conditioner sparingly
- Remove snow and ice fro your vehicle
- Avoid unnecessary idling.
For other gas-saving techniques, click here.
Rideshare Etiquette
As a member of a carpool or vanpool, think about your own driving habits and how they might affect other passengers. Below are a few simple points to keep things running smoothly, help avoid conflict, and make your car or vanpool a positive experience for everyone involved.
- Avoid being late
- Drive safely at all times
- Keep the car/van clean, well serviced, and full of gas
- Notify others of any schedule changes well in advance
- Respect any policies the ridepool has agreed on (check out Carpool/Vanpool Tips)
- Be prompt with your share of the total monthly payment if there is one
- Avoid wearing and using products with strong scents
- Ensure you have adequate auto insurance to cover your liability (coverage of $1,000,000 is recommended, as well as underinsured motorist protection)
- Follow the golden rule; treat your fellow passengers as you would like to be treated
Ride along with three Go Vermont carpoolers and learn the benefits of sharing a ride.
