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RIDESHARE - carpool/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 smoother.

• Meet with fellow commuters before starting your carpool to exchange information and establish guidelines.
  • Decide who will do the driving and if driving is to be shared.
  • Decide where to meet or times to be picked up. Park and ride lots
  • Decide on smoking policies, radio, food, etc. 
  • Decide how much and when compensation is expected.
  • Decide how long the pool 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. E-mail and phone as needed.
• Give your carpool a chance to work effectively. It may take a few weeks to get things running smoothly.

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.

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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.

The following Web sites have lots of good information and offer great tips on biking, bike safety and commuting to or from work and or school.

• Traveling by bike
• Rules for riding
• Where to ride bicycles
• Bicycle commuting

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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All external hyperlinks are provided for your information and for the benefit of the general public. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation does not testify to, sponsor or endorse the accuracy of the information provided on externally linked pages.

Questions about the content of this page:
Karen Schmiechen, karen.schmiechen@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: July 23, 2008