Car sharing is becoming increasingly popular, fuelled by an increasing awareness of green issues and a desire to save money amid the credit crunch and rising petrol prices.

According to the AA, over half of drivers have considered car sharing to get to work or social events, although only 11 per cent actually do so on a regular basis.

Saving fuel reason for car sharing

Currently, one in ten drivers say that they car share more than once a week, however, increasing numbers are considering the idea. When questioned, the overwhelming majority cited fuel savings as their reason for wanting to car share. And sixty per cent of those who already car share put this choice down to saving money on petrol. Half of that figure, 34 per cent, said that they were car sharing as it is better for the environment.

The most popular destination for car sharers was the pub, with 54 per cent of those who car share regularly going to the pub or a social event. 34 percent car shared to get to work, while 32 per cent said that they share long journeys.

Mr King, President of the AA says: “Car sharing is something that we really believe in – not only is it a good way to reduce emissions and congestion on the road, but can also save on motoring costs.”

He added that “There is huge scope to become more of a car sharing nation and our research suggests that we could see a big increase, especially if Government proposals for ‘high occupancy vehicle’ or ‘car sharing’ lanes on some busy commuter routes go ahead.”

Check car insurance policy

However, alarmingly, only 27 per cent of those regularly car sharing admitted to checking their car insurance policy before offering to share their car. While the majority of car sharers did so for social reasons, in which case they would be covered, those car sharing to get to work, who make up a big proportion of car sharers may need to check their policy and add on ‘occasional business travel’.

“To make sure that car sharing is a safe and pleasant experience, drivers should check their insurance policy as well as be mindful of the social etiquette around sharing especially if they do not know the other sharer very well,” said Mr King.

The current economic situation could lead to car sharing taking off in a big way, which would also have great benefits for the environment.

However, some are concerned that car sharing could have a downside, with 61 per cent of people saying that they would be put off car sharing as a result of other peoples annoying habits. Lateness was the biggest worry, with 72 per cent of people saying that this would be the worst thing which a car sharer could do.

Other worries included back seat driving, putting feet on the seats and dashboard, having loud telephone conversations and eating in the car.