The number of laborers in the U.S. has doubled since 1970, growing from 77 million to over 150 million. However, only 1 million commuters used public transit during that period. Additionally, only 5% of workers across the nation get to work by bus or rail. This means that most people decide to own a car rather than rely on buses or other public transit.
Automobiles provide greater independence, comfort, and freedom when traveling to and from the workplace. However, only some workers can purchase their own, given the steep price of a new car.
Fortunately, various grants and projects, such as the Wheels for Work program, help low-income families and individuals purchase their vehicles. Read on to learn more.
Benefits Of Having A Personal Vehicle
Nowadays, a personal vehicle has become a necessity. As major cities continue to grow and expand, car ownership rates will also increase accordingly. You may still be wondering whether or not to buy a vehicle for you and your family.
Here are some convincing reasons you should invest in one.
Health Emergencies
A private automobile is the best safeguard for your health during a pandemic. Due to the current health crisis, many are compelled to follow social distancing policies. Getting an automobile allows you to do just that.
Also, you run a higher chance of contracting the virus if you use public transportation. When you ride buses and other kinds of public transit, you can be in face-to-face contact with possible carriers. You don't want to be unable to work after getting the virus as an employee.
Independence And Comfort
With your vehicle, you won't have to adjust your schedule to accommodate others. You can get to work without relying heavily on bus or rail schedules.
In comparison to other modes of public transit, cars are also more comfortable. They include climate control, wider seats, and more leg space.
Safety And Convenience
You are at the mercy of other drivers when you use public transportation or carpooling services. Control over the steering wheel is one of the greatest advantages of owning a car.
It gives you more control over your trip results, allowing you to ensure your safety better. Driving a personal vehicle also saves time. You may take detours and shortcuts to avoid traffic on your route to work.
Flexibility And Reliability
In some instances, public transit can be undependable. Weather conditions or mechanical issues can cause bus delays or train cancellations. However, you need not worry about these problems if you have your car. With your automobile, you can always travel anywhere at any time.
Work Opportunities
Having your car allows you to expand your horizons, particularly when looking for a job. Because you have a vehicle, you are allowed to the job openings near your residence since you can attend interviews further away.
Furthermore, you can qualify for more types of on-the-field jobs if you have a personal car.
Privacy And Security
You sit next to strangers in a constricted space when taking public transportation. This may be risky, especially if you're a woman traveling alone.
You can lock the doors when you have a car so nobody can bother or harass you. A personal automobile is a wise investment for people who appreciate privacy and security.
Wheels For Work Program
Despite vehicles being frequently linked to traffic and pollution, they play a vital role in today's society, especially for those who live and work in cities. Workers who can't afford to purchase their own may apply for the Wheels for Work program.
Benefits Provided
Wheels for work is a nationwide assistance program that aims to provide reliable and safe transportation to and from work for low-income families, individuals, and people with disabilities. This program provides transportation assistance services to qualified applicants so they can secure a job and earn a living wage.
Benefits and services include the following:
- Donation of used vehicles
- Low-cost and brand-new automobiles
- Auto repair grants
- Free emergency repair services
- Affordable insurance policies
- No-interest car loans
- General fiscal management
Eligibility Requirements
Only some individuals may be eligible to receive the Wheels for Work program benefits. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
- Prove the need for a vehicle or transportation assistance to obtain employment;
- Be a U.S. citizen currently residing within the country;
- Currently employed;
- Have a valid driver's license;
- Does not own a working vehicle;
- Not a previous recipient of the program;
- Under 150% of the federal poverty level;
- Has a proven and debilitating disability;
- A pregnant woman; or
- Living with a minor child or a non-custodial guardian caring for a minor child.
If you are not eligible for the Wheels For Work program, you may try applying for other grants to buy a car. Read this article from Gov Relations to learn more.
