I have spent several years of my adult life as a non-driver. There are some really good reasons why it is better to be a non-driver.

In a large city there really should not be a need for having a car, it is actually easier to not have one. Traffic is so congested, that not driving will actually be a favor to everyone involved, as you are not contributing to the problem. Not only do you have to constantly pay attention to other drivers and your surroundings, there is the never-ending worry of where to park. It can actually take less time in a large city to use public transportation and to get to your destination.

Not driving is actually more beneficial to your health. Not only are you doing your body a favor by walking more, you also are doing something good for the environment by having one less gasoline burning automobile on the road ways. You also suffer less stress by not having to deal with rude and distracted drivers in traffic. The time you don't spend behind the wheel could be used doing other things, like reading. In essence not driving can actually give you some more opportunities to educate or entertain yourself.

But, the most recognizable factor of not driving is probably the amount of money you can save. Even if you drive a used car and have no monthly car payment (or your car is paid off), you still have to spend money. The biggest chunk of that money goes towards car insurance. Then there is the price of gasoline, which is pretty self-explanatory. A lot of locations also assess property taxes on vehicles. Money that you have to spend on parking can add up too, whether it is putting change in a parking meter or paying regular fees to use garages and parking lots. Not only do you have to perform regular maintenance on a car like oil changes, tune-ups, and tires; there are also required vehicle inspections in many areas. Cars, like all products of technology, can break down, which incurs towing and mechanics charges.

With all these advantages, one might think that public transportation is a strongly encouraged option. Unfortunately, in many locations (especially in the United States and rural areas) that is not so. Many times there are not even sidewalks to walk on, or a space to ride a bicycle.

Still, even if you own a car, you should take advantage of not driving once in a while. This can include walking to the convenience store, as well as car-pooling for kids' events or even work. While you won't save as much money as not owning a car, you would still spend less money on gasoline, as well as give your body a little extra exercise, and contribute a little less pollution.

Learn more about this author, Alexandra Heep.
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