Invisible Rides: How Car-Less Americans Access Cars
by Nicholas J. Klein, Anne Brown, Amanda Howell, and Michael J. Smart
A recent study explores the methods and motivations behind car access for households without vehicles in the United States. Conducted through a national online survey of 830 American adults and interviews with twenty-nine low- and moderate-income travelers, the research sought to understand how these individuals manage their transportation needs.
The findings were validated using data from the 2017 National Household Travel Survey. According to the study, respondents utilized various means such as getting rides from others, borrowing cars, and using ride-hailing services to fulfill essential travel needs like grocery shopping, social or recreational activities, and medical appointments.
"While most interviewees intend to purchase a vehicle in the future," noted the researchers, "they also desire better transit." This indicates that even though these households currently lack cars, they do not necessarily prefer car ownership if alternative transportation options are improved.
The study provides insight into the transportation behaviors of zero-car households and highlights their reliance on multiple strategies to navigate daily life without personal vehicles.
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