Ridesharing programs are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, save money, and improve their daily commute. In addition to the benefits for everyday use, these programs can also be valuable in times of crisis, providing essential transportation for disaster relief efforts. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best ridesharing programs for carpooling and disaster relief services.
Carpooling Programs
Carpooling programs are a great way to share rides with others and reduce the number of cars on the road. This can save money, reduce traffic congestion, and help to protect the environment. Here are some of the best carpooling programs available:
Waze Carpool
Waze Carpool is a new program that connects drivers and riders who are going in the same direction. It’s available in select cities in the US, Israel, and Brazil and is separate from the standard Waze navigation app. Riders pay a small fee to cover the cost of gas and wear and tear on the driver’s car. It’s a simple way to help people get where they need to go while reducing traffic on the roads.
Scoop
Scoop is a popular carpooling platform that connects commuters in major cities across the US. It’s focused on helping people get to and from work and can be used on a regular schedule. Users can arrange rides in advance or request a ride on the day they need it. Scoop works with employers to encourage participation, and the service is often subsidized by companies as an employee benefit.
CarpoolWorld
CarpoolWorld is a global carpooling platform that allows users to find potential carpool partners based on their location and destination. It’s a free service, and users can search for rides that match their schedule and preferences. CarpoolWorld is available in over 180 countries and has a large user base.
Disaster Relief Services
In times of crisis, access to transportation can be a key factor in getting people out of danger and to safety. Here are some of the best ridesharing programs for disaster relief services:
Uber
Uber has been used extensively in disaster relief efforts, and the company has developed specific features and programs to help during emergencies. For example, in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Uber waived fees for rides to and from shelters in affected areas. The company also has a “Disaster Response” team that works to get drivers and riders connected during emergencies.
RideAustin
RideAustin is a nonprofit ridesharing service that operates in Austin, Texas. The service was launched in response to Uber and Lyft leaving the city due to regulatory concerns. RideAustin has partnered with local organizations to provide free transportation during times of crisis, and the group has mobilized during floods, wildfires, and other emergencies.
Lyft
Lyft is another ridesharing service that has been used in disaster relief efforts. In 2017, Lyft teamed up with the Red Cross to offer rides to blood donation centers in the wake of the Las Vegas shooting. The company has also provided free rides to people impacted by Hurricane Harvey and other natural disasters.
Conclusion
Ridesharing programs offer a variety of benefits, from reducing traffic on the roads to providing essential transportation during emergencies. Whether you’re looking to carpool to work or help out during a natural disaster, there are plenty of options available. Consider trying one of the ridesharing programs we’ve highlighted here and see how it can make a difference in your daily life.