Public bus transport vs. private car in rural areas: what are the pros and cons?
Many people living in rural areas rely on their own cars to get around, as public transport options may be limited or inconvenient. However, there are also some benefits to using public bus transport, especially if you are travelling to urban areas or need to access essential services. In this blog post, we will compare the advantages and disadvantages of using public bus transport vs. private car in rural areas, and how TFI Local Link Galway can help you with your travel needs.
Some of the benefits of using public bus transport in rural areas are:
Cost savings: Public bus transport is usually cheaper than driving your own car, as you do not have to pay for fuel, maintenance, insurance, parking, or tolls. You can also save money by buying a weekly pass, or by using a Leap Card, which offers discounts and convenience for public transport users. According to a study by the National Transport Authority, the average annual cost of using public transport in Ireland is €1,200, compared to €10,600 for owning and operating a car.
Environmental benefits: Public bus transport is more environmentally friendly than driving a car, as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, noise pollution, and congestion. A single bus can carry up to 50 passengers, which means fewer cars on the road and less carbon footprint. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, transport accounts for 20% of Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, and road transport is the main contributor.
Social benefits: Public bus transport can also provide social benefits, such as reducing isolation, improving mental health, enhancing community cohesion, and increasing access to education, employment, health care, and other services. Public bus transport can also be safer than driving a car, as it reduces the risk of accidents, road rage, and stress. According to the Road Safety Authority, there were 148 fatalities and 8,170 injuries from road collisions in Ireland in 2020.
Some of the drawbacks of using public bus transport in rural areas are:
Limited availability: Public bus transport may not be available in some rural areas, or may not operate frequently or reliably. This can make it difficult to plan your trips, especially if you need to travel at night, on weekends, or on public holidays. You may also have to walk long distances to reach the nearest bus stop, or transfer between different modes of transport, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
Lack of flexibility: Public bus transport may not suit your personal preferences or needs, as you have to follow a fixed schedule and route, and share the space with other passengers. You may not be able to travel when and where you want, or carry large or bulky items, or travel with your pets. You may also have to deal with delays, disruptions, or cancellations due to weather, traffic, or other factors.
Comfort and quality: Public bus transport may not offer the same level of comfort and quality as driving your own car, as you may have to face overcrowding, noise, lack of privacy, or poor hygiene. You may also have to cope with different standards of service, accessibility, or safety, depending on the operator, vehicle, or location.
How TFI Local Link Galway can help you?
TFI Local Link Galway is the local public transport bus service that provides better links between rural transport and national bus and rail services, serving the communities of County Galway.
TFI Local Link Galway offers over 60 services a week, including regular rural bus services and door-to-door bus services, covering the County Galway region. TFI Local Link Galway is part of the TFI Public Transport Network, which means you can use your Leap Card to pay for your fares, and benefit from discounts and convenience. TFI Local Link Galway aims to provide a well-functioning, accessible, and integrated public transport system that enhances competitiveness, sustains economic progress, promotes balanced regional development, and contributes to social cohesion.
TFI Local Link Galway is your local bus service, and we are here to help you with your travel needs. To find out more about our services, timetables, fares, and routes, please visit our website, or call us at 091 842384. We hope to see you on board soon!