DEBATE: Lift services vs paying for petrol
Which option should you opt for?
With petrol prices on the never-ending rise, increased safety concerns when using lift services, and the detriments of having a car, we are all perplexed as to what the best solution to this problem is.
It seems like no matter which choice we make it's still not feasible for any party.
We took to Facebook to pose this question to our users:
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A lot of the feedback we received varied. Some users opt for driving and others swear by lift services.
The problem with lift services is that they can often be unreliable and safety is always a major concern.
Is it worth saving a buck over saving your own life?
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The problem with cars is the maintenance side of things.
The cost of having a car exceeds the benefit at times. With reckless drivers, astronomical petrol prices, and expensive insurance rates, it's a wonder if people make any money when they travel far for work...
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We asked our Drive team what their thoughts on the situation are:
J Sbu was team cars and he reported to spend about R3,500 per month on fuel, which is enough to feed a family of five!
He is often in Umhlanga and rarely ever travels far.
Have a listen to his daily experience:
Stacey, however, uses lift services habitually.
She uses it to get to and from work and the occasional outing.
She spends just R1,000 a month, never more than that. Stacey lives and works in the same area therefore it is the most cost-effective option for her.
Some of our users shared their responses below:
- You can't win !! The lift club drivers become greedy and keep raising the amount at every petrol price increase.
- Paying for petrol is my go to, prefer my own company and not feeling forced to talk if you not in the mood to talk.
- Work from home! We did it during covid...otherwise lift club is the way!
- Nah, one word, bicycle.
- Paying for petrol. Peace of mind. Less drama. No disappointments when the lift services cancel or go on leave. No sitting cramped. Not having to be rushed or leave extra early.
- Lift services. Cost effective, make new friends while getting to work.
One user stated that we should simply "go back to basics" and shared this image below:
Some tips we have found are carpooling, using lift services for short trips, working from home if possible or opting to start using a bicycle or other means of transport.
There is no definite answer as to what is best, each option varies for everyone's different circumstances.
One thing is for sure, if the price of petrol keeps increasing, we won't be able to go anywhere besides on our ten toes.
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Image courtesy of iStock