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RIDESHARE - Carpool/bike buddy tips

Carpool tips | Bike buddy tips

Carpool tips

If you are establishing a new carpool or if your existing carpool is experiencing some bumps along the way, the suggestions below may make the ride go a little smoother:

• Meet with fellow commuters before starting your carpool to exchange information and establish guidelines. A few general items to discuss are listed below:
  • Who will do the driving and if driving is to be shared?
  • Where to meet or times to be picked up?
    • Park and ride lots
  • Policies on smoking, radio, food, etc.
  • How much compensation is expected and when it is expected?
  • How long the carpool will wait for a passenger (five minutes is recommended)? Cell phones are a great way to keep in touch if a participant is running late.
• Build in flexibility to accommodate changing schedules.
• Establish back-up plans in the event the driver is not available.
• Communication is key to successful carpools. Email and phone each other as needed.
• Give the carpool a chance to work effectively. It may take a few weeks to get things running smoothly.
• If issues arise, communicate. Try to talk them out before leaving the carpool.

Common courtesies

• Give notice of vacation or sickness as far in advance as possible.
• Drive in a safe and courteous manner and be prompt.
• Avoid controversial discussions.
• Avoid strong scents that may be irritating to others.
• Keep your car’s interior inviting for others to sit in.

Bike buddy – bike commuting tips

There are advantages to cycling with a buddy.

• Together you are more visible to other traffic.
• The ride will seem to go faster.
• There is security in knowing there is a buddy there to help if a problem develops.
• Together you will feel more confident to try new routes.

To establish a good bike buddy partnership:

• Discuss and agree on a meeting point. Park and ride lots, retail parking lots, and parks are a good place to start. Be punctual. Use cell phones to communicate. Arrive with your gear and equipment ready to ride.
• Discuss your experience levels and agree who should lead and who should follow.
• Agree on a route before starting out.
• Discuss a pace you both are comfortable with and what to do if separated by traffic or traffic signals. Keep at least one bike distance between you.
• Be predictable in your riding habits. Ride straight and maintain a relatively constant speed.
• Warn each other of hazards.
• Follow the rules of the road.

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Questions about the content of this page, contact:
Karen Schmiechen, karen.schmiechen@dot.wi.gov
Last modified: September 27, 2011