| Thanks to rapidly rising gasoline prices, there is | | | | In areas with high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, |
| renewed interest in carpooling. Most carpooling | | | | carpooling reduces commuting times. Even a small |
| promotions emphasize the saving in fuel costs and | | | | percentage increase in the number of carpoolers can |
| reduction in pollution. However, there are far more | | | | make a significant difference in traffic congestion in |
| advantages that are rarely discussed. | | | | any area with heavy traffic. |
| Carpooling reduces virtually all expenses related to | | | | Passengers can relax and read or nap instead of |
| owing a car. Driving fewer miles reduces insurance | | | | increasing their stress levels fighting traffic. The |
| rates, maintenance, parking costs, etc. In some | | | | prevalence of portable MP3 players allows passengers |
| cases, a family can even eliminate one of their cars | | | | to listen to their own music, Podcasts, or whatever |
| or buy a cheaper car as a result of carpooling. | | | | they wish as they ride. |