The number of people carpooling in the United States has increased dramatically over the years due to the fact that the rising cost of oil has led to an ever increasing cost in gas prices.

The advantages of carpooling is that you save on gas because everyone in the pool pitches in for gas money, but you also have to keep in mind that in order for a carpool to work, there has to be communication, and organization. When you are in a carpool, there have to be agreements made, rules followed, and schedules made on whose car will be used. Schedules can range from a daily to a weekly schedule, and a set amount of gas money has to be agreed upon before every trip. This may not seem possible at times because the price of gas varies from day to day, but if the price is consistent, then a set amount would be appropriate, depending on the size, model, and make of the car.

Many states encourage both carpooling and some have even come up with Van Pools where a group of people get together and ride in a 12 to 15 passenger van to work. Unlike Carpools, Vanpools are run like a business. There is usually a data-base that matches people to a local Vanpool, there is a screening of the potential Vanpooler, and a monthly fee that helps pay for the gas and maintenance of the vehicle. Vanpoolers have a set of rules to follow once in the pool, which is basically if you’re driving no talking on the cell phone, and just basic car etiquette.

Commuters take turns driving and keeping the vehicle over night in their driveways or pay for a parking spot at a local Park-N-Ride. Van-Pooling is not for everybody, but it saves a lot of money. If you compare the cost of gas, tolls and wear and tear on your own vehicle, we are talking about $700 a month just commuting on your own, verses the $300 dollars for using a Carpool, HOV lane, or Vanpool.

Lastly, in some states, if you carpool you may be eligible for tax breaks, and the possibility of having your tolls waived. Finding a car pool doesn’t have to be a hassle. Websites like MyCasualCarpool.com makes it easier to find car pools in your local area. Carpooling can make a positive impact on your commute, environment, and even your finances.