Tue, 13 Jun 2006
Young drivers could reduce their car costs by sharing a journey with a friend, neighbour or work colleague.
New research from Halifax Car Insurance suggests that drivers could save nearly 50 per cent on their motoring costs by offering someone a lift.
Solo drivers travelling to work have to pay an average of £1,017 a year on expenses such as petrol; however, car sharing and only using their cars on alternative days could reduce this amount significantly.
It is estimated that over ten million cars during the rush hour only contain the driver meaning there are over 38 million empty seats on the UK roads every morning and afternoon.
"Passengers in the car not only improve your environmental credentials, they can also act as an extra pair of eyes for you, especially in the morning rush hour when traffic is at its heaviest," said Mike Pickard, head of underwriting at Halifax Car Insurance.
"Insurance wise, you can carry passengers in return for a mileage payment as long as there is no element of profit."
Young drivers are the most likely to car share, with more 18-24 year olds giving a lift to their friends or colleagues than any other age group.
© Adfero Ltd

An online quote will take less than a minute, and you can see just how much you could save.