Since the end of WWII, Americans had a shared aspiration: to own a car. However, lifestyle and demographic shifts imply that the number of families without a vehicle has risen. This comes following a study conducted in 2013.
The decline in car ownership also coincides with a general decline in driving. While this is partly due to the high cost of maintaining and owning a car, other factors have a role to play. If you’re contemplating a car-free lifestyle, check this out.
Reasons Why People are Increasingly Foregoing Car Ownership
Younger Americans appear less keen on car ownership than the older generation according to reports. The data also reveals that while people in the 35-44 age brackets purchased new vehicles a few years back, these days it’s the 55-65 age.
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Accessibility of other Transportation Modes
The increasing accessibility of subways, bus lines, and other modes of transit has made it easy for people to forego car ownership. In addition, there’s been a rise in the number of people who commute using bikes.
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Walking is Easier
Walking communities are in great demand, and if you can walk to your destination, you can have a car-free lifestyle. However, this is less likely outside well-designed towns and major cities according to the 2013 study.
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No Driver’s License
Studies reveal that younger consumers, specifically Gen Y has lost an interest in obtaining a license. Reports further reveal that fewer younger adults lack licenses and traditionally dislike the car-purchasing process compared to other demographics.
Research also reveals that this group prefers online socialization and urban living and so, have less need for vehicles.
Ways to Get around Without a Vehicle
There are various alternatives to getting around without a car including:
Uber-Benefits
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Premium Service
One of the benefits of using this program is that the trained drivers are extremely friendly and easy to work with. You’ll discover the drivers know the area they reside in extremely well.
For this reason, they’ll take you to your preferred destination as quickly as possible. The drivers will ensure you feel comfortable throughout your trip. The vehicles are also comfortable, clean, and you’ll arrive to your destination in style.
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Fair Pricing
The program features a pricing system that’s incredibly easy to comprehend. Additionally, you’ll at times benefit from deals and coupons, so watch out for offers.
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Easy to Understand and Use
Uber ‘s app allows for stress-free usage. You can easily sign up for and understand the service. Consumers don’t have to worry about making errors because they must verify everything they type in.
Furthermore, you can keep track of what’s going on with the hired driver. You’ll discover the app provides step by step instructions. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed or intimidated.
Lyft-Benefits
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Low Rates and Cost Sharing
The major advantage of using this program is that passengers can share the transport cost. With this system, you’ll pair with those traveling in a similar direction, developing a carpool. This way, you’ll split the cost, resulting in savings.
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Safety
Insurance coverage is a pre-requisite for any driver who wishes to offer transportation through Lyft. Moreover, the driver’s license should be valid and he or she must undergo a vehicle inspection and DMV background check. A rating system also helps weed out unprofessional or poor drivers from the app.
Public Transport
The advantages of public transportation range from household finances to public health. Other benefits include:
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Environmental Benefits
Buses, particularly electrically powered and newer diesel vehicles emit less pollution than personal cars.
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Physical Benefits
Public transportation allows users to get more than three times the amount of physical activity daily. Physical activity helps decrease the likelihood of various diseases such as cardiovascular illnesses and strokes.
If you’re contemplating a car-free lifestyle, check out the list of alternative means of transport.
For more information on how to get around without owning a vehicle, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave suggestions.