You’ve known it since you were 16 and your dad handed you the keys to the family car: driving is a big responsibility. Unfortunately, in Los Angeles it can also be a big pain in the butt. Bumper to bumper traffic, limited parking, and high gas prices (not to mention the pollution) can make driving more of a hassle than it’s worth. But how do you get around a smog-choked car city like LA…without a car? Believe it or not, there are options for those of us who don’t have a car or simply want to stop eating the ozone with or cars.
In fact, getting around LA without your car may be easier than you think. While there’s no doubt cars offer ease and convenience, there are other ways to get from point A to point B.
Public transportation is one option. A whopping 7% of Angelinos use the metro (as opposed to 25% of people in Chicago who use public transit, and 54% of New Yorkers who ride the MTA). With the stops inadequately covering the region, it is easy to see why most people opt to drive rather than take the bus. However, if you are lucky enough to live near a line, Los Angeles Metro can be an inexpensive, convenient way to get around. Not to mention you never have to search for parking!
Another way to get around is with Light Electric Vehicles. These LEVs are a variety of electric vehicles ranging from scooters to bikes to pedicabs. Electro Ride™ is a San Francisco Bay area based company that specializes in these vehicles. There are dealers all over the country who can sell you the LEV right for you, let you test drive one, or even convert your current bicycle into an electric bike.
An electric bike is easy on the environment and fun to ride. For those who live close to where they work, an electric bike can be a good way to commute without arriving at the office sweaty and out of breath every morning. Even if your commute is a little longer, an LEV can be a great way to get to that far away bus stop. Many of the vehicles are lightweight and can be folded under a bus seat.
Next time you’re gassing up your car, watching in pain as the numbers get higher and higher, consider the bus or a Light Electric Vehicle. It could save you time, money, and the environment will thank you!
