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Costs & Safety
Sharing costs, and other rideshare arrangements
People make many different rideshare arrangements that work. It is up to the people sharing rides to decide how to split costs, when and where to pick up and drop off, whether to play music, talk or have quiet, and any other aspect of their rideshare. However, here are a few pointers:
In sharing costs, some riders user the IRS travel reinbursement rate of 55 cents per mile and share other expenses such as tolls or parking. Some estimate total costs or agree on an amount that riders pay ahead of time. Others simply rotate drivers or trade rides.
People sharing a ride sometimes discuss whether to have music or not, or even conversation… or some groups let the driver decide. You might also want to be clear about how long people will wait if someone is late, and if any extra stops will be added.
Any arrangement is fine, as long as everyone agrees. We recommend going over clear agreements ahead of time about sharing costs, picking up and dropping off, extra stops, and car culture. (i.e. music) ahead of time.
Is it safe?
Every form of transportation invoves some risks. With ridesharing, remember that you are in control. You can make decisions that are right for you. You can choose to share rides only with friends, family or people from other networks you trust, such as coworkers or members of the same interest group.
You can ask for and check references from potential rideshare partners, and check that the information they give you -- such as where they work and how long they’ve worked there -- is true. Sharing rides among families can be a great way to help kids get where they need to go. When letting others give rides to your kids, meet them in person first, check references, and even check their vehicle to make sure you’re comfortable with the arrangement.
Some rideshare matching websites offer certain screening or feedback mechanisms that can be useful. However, it’s always up to the individual to use your own judgement and common sense!
