The Safe Driver

Do you need to drive?

I recently wrote about when you should learn how to drive – http://thesafedriver.ca/2009/12/03/when-should-you-learn-to-drive/ – but after thinking about this and talking about this with others, I may have forgotten a big part of this process. After you learn how to drive, do you drive for the sake of driving, or do you really need to drive?

I remember when I got my license at 16 years old, I wanted to drive everywhere. The only problem was that I had to ask my dad if I could borrow the car. If it was a worthwhile trip, or a long distance, he would let me do that. If it was to go to school, he often said no. I used to walk to school before I got my license, so driving wasn’t really needed. How many of you drive a short distance when walking would work?

I listen to people describe how they drive everywhere. With the price of fuel now, plus the wear and tear on the vehicle, why drive if you don’t need to? There are many people I know that believe this. They take public transportation, walk or ride a bike to get to where they want to go. A company in Montreal has introduced an interesting concept. They provide bikes for commuters to rent, drop off at a variety of stations, and then continue on their day. They don’t have to worry about parking or if someone would steal their bike. What an awesome concept! http://montreal.bixi.com/rolling-with-bixi/how-it-works

Now, if you don’t live in Montreal, you’re going to have to think about whether you should drive or travel by another method. If you do have to drive, plan your trips so you can also run your errands at the same time. It will definitely help to keep our planet green.

Another way to reduce driving time is to share rides with others and car pool. This can save you hundreds of dollars a year, plus help you maintain your vehicle for many years. You’ll save mileage, fuel, plus that wear and tear again.

Hopefully I’ve given you something to think about….yet again!