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I used to drive to work every day. It would usually take me about 20-30 minutes and I enjoyed the freedom and convenience of driving my car. But that was when gas prices were at a “normal” level. Now that gas prices have skyrocketed to record levels, I’ve had to re-evaluate my commute.
First, I’ve started using public transit more often. I’m lucky that I live in a city with an excellent public transit system – one of the country’s best. By taking public transit, I only add about 15 extra minutes to my commute time. It works out great. I save gas money and get more reading accomplished than I did before. In addition, my work has begun allowing employees (including me) to work from home. So I’ve replaced one day of driving with working from my house. Instead of getting up and driving to work, I open my laptop from my living room and I’m at work. I love it! And it adds more time to my day.
It seems like I’m not the only one who has had to re-evaluate their commute. Americans across the country are beginning to take a second look at how much gas they consume and ways to reduce their consumption. A recent web article discussed a study by Robert Half International that looked at higher gas prices and commuting. The study found that “44% of [survey] respondents said higher gas prices affected their commutes.” This was an increase from 34% from a study conducted two years ago. The study found that respondents changed their commuting habits by opting for ridesharing or carpooling, taking public transportation or looking for a new job closer to home or driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle.
So it seems like higher gas prices are having an effect on our behavior and maybe even our health. What are your thoughts? Have higher gas prices altered your how you commute?
Justin
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