A carpooler's etiquette list

Make ground rules about eating, drinking, music, phone calls etc. during the commute. (Credit: Washington State Department of Transportation via Flickr)

It's almost two decades since I was in a regular work carpool. Our commute was one hour each way. We were a group of five, so each person drove one day a week.

Carpooling is cost-effective and reduces carbon emissions. If you can carpool, here's an etiquette list to help you all have a smoother group ride:

Select a convenient meeting/pick-up spot that's safe and easy to get to by bike or public transit
Show up on time
Share a contact information sheet
Make group agreements or ground rules about eating, drinking, music, chatting, phone calls etc. during the commute
Keep a schedule and track driver turns
Go scent-free
Drive smart
Agree on a cost per trip for those without vehicles


Maintain your vehicle (check gas, air tire pressure, oil, emergency kit, etc.)
Take your turn in the uncomfortable seat
Save personal errands for your own time
Keep your car interior tidy (remove garbage, dog hair, etc.)
Take your stuff (garbage or personal belongings) with you
Call in sick (or work from home) to avoid spreading colds and viruses
Speak openly, but be patient and respectful
Don't disband at the first sign of disagreement

I'm sure some things have changed since I carpooled. Please, add your tips in the comments!

What are your secrets to a successful carpool?

Sincerely,

Lindsay Coulter, a fellow Queen of Green

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