Tips for Carpoolers

• Always meet your carpool partners at a public place in advance of your first trip to work in order to discuss the details of your carpool arrangement.
• Trust your instincts - if you do not get a good feeling about someone do not carpool with them.
• Communication is key! Discuss the following details before you start carpooling:
  • music, radio, conversation or silence - some people prefer a quiet ride in the morning
  • Smoking or non-smoking
  • Eating
  • Route
  • Schedules and pick-up/drop-off times
  • Lateness
  • Cost sharing and payment
• If you are sharing driving duties, rotate weekly, monthly or daily but develop a firm and regular schedule to avoid confusion.
• Discuss your carpool plans with your insurance company. Liability coverage is generally sufficient but double check with your provider. Some companies offer reduced rates for carpoolers.
• Exchange home, work, and cell phone numbers and emergency contact information
• BE PUNCTUAL - agree in advance how long you will wait for your carpool partners if they are late.
• Practice good personal hygiene.
• Drive safely and obey the rules of the road.
• Be willing to compromise and communicate.
• Agree on a back-up plan in the case of illness, mechanical problems or an emergency situation.
• Carpooling is a cooperative effort - common sense, dependability, courtesy, planning, flexibility and accommodation are essential.