6 Benefits Of Taking Public Transportation Instead Of A Car

30 April 2016
 Categories: , Blog

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While you already know that biking and walking to work may be healthier than driving your car, it is easy to pass up the benefits of taking public transportation or hiring a transportation service.

1. Could Public Transportation Help You Lose Weight?

A study suggested that men who took public transportation instead of driving a car to work tended to have a lower BMI, by about 0.7 points. These men also tended to be about five pounds lighter than their driving counterparts. Additionally, women who regularly took public transportation tended to weigh about two pounds less than women who drove. This could be a result of the amount of walking involved in getting to and from bus stops and train stations.

2. Public Transportation Riders Save on the Price of Gas

Shocked by recent changes in gas prices? You wouldn't be the only one. Many people turned to public transportation when gas prices first exceeded $3 per gallon. In urban areas with readily available transport options, this was not a difficult change to make.

3. Public Transportation Clears the Roads

Using public transportation actually makes it easier for everybody to get around, even those driving to work. More people on the subway means less people driving cars. The efficiency of the entire system increases as traffic congestion decreases.

4. You Are Safer on Public Transportation than on the Road

Even when it comes to school buses, public transportation tends to be safer than driving a car. Not only is less congestion safer, but these vehicles are designed to handle potential emergencies. Buses are designed to prevent injury and death much more than your typical passenger vehicle.

5. You Emit Fewer Carbon Emissions

Carbon emissions are a growing concern among those who are environmentally conscious. Public transportation companies are increasingly concerned with showing that they are environmentally friendly too. The Metro system in Minneapolis has created a light rail line that uses hydropower and wind to run. In Indianapolis, the Public Transportation Corporation recently began using hybrid buses. Some cities, like Des Moines, have also used holidays, like Earth Day, to promote free rides

6. Your Car Lasts Longer without the Commute

Without putting regular wear and tear on your car, you will see it last longer. You will find yourself changing the oil less and experiencing fewer flat tires. Ultimately, you save more on your car.

Public transportation offers plenty of benefits you may not have considered. Is it time to consider taking it to work?