Carpool Tips

COURTESY TIPS FOR CARPOOLERS

Decide if you are going to alternate driving, drive every day or ride every day.
If it is not a share driving arrangement, agree on a payment schedule.
Set up a line of communication. If someone can't make it on a given day, let the driver know in advance the day before. Don't forget to give notice of vacation, personal or overtime plans.
Establish a time schedule and pick-up points. BE PROMPT.
Establish a rule for latecomers. Decide how long the carpool will wait for a passenger (usually no more than 5 minutes).
Avoid side trips on the way home.
Keep the car clean, well maintained and filled with enough gas for each trip.
Decide on radio use, smoking policies and other similar concerns before you start carpooling.
Have a back-up plan for emergency situations, i.e. if your carpool driver must leave early because of a family emergency or stay late for unexpected overtime. The Commuter Register offers a Guaranteed Ride Home Program that will provide you a taxi ride home for these type situations.