Save on the fuel bill going to work

  -- McClatchy-Tribune News Service

(Updated Monday, May 12, 2008, 8:26 PM)

With rising gas prices, we're all looking for ways to save on the cost of filling up our automobiles.

One of the best areas to cut back still remains with our commutes to and from work. Drivers have several options available when it comes to the daily trip to the office. Here are a few of them, including some familiar methods:

-Stagger your work hours and avoid peak rush hours. This can help you spend less time sitting in traffic, consume less fuel and avoid additional stress associated with driving.

-Take advantage of available carpools and ride-share programs. Sharing your commute with others cuts weekly fuel costs and will reduce wear on your car. Joining other riders in a car will allow use of less-congested High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes.

-Consider public transportation. In many major cities subway and commuter rail systems offer commuters a largely hassle-free way to make it into the office without taking the car out of the garage. The American Public Transportation Association's Web site at www.apta.com/links/state-local/ provides a good source for local public transportation options.

-Look into working from home via telecommuting. This eliminates any commuting by car.

Source: Alliance to Save Energy

Edited and compiled by Chuck Myers.