Vanpool FAQ

How much does it cost?

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A lot less than you pay to drive alone! Each passenger pays a low monthly fare (based on round-trip miles) which covers all commuting costs. Plus, some employers offer employee discounts.

What are the vans like?

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Triangle Transit owns 12 and 7-passenger vans with automatic transmission, anti-lock brakes, front airbags, and (for your comfort):

  • AM/FM Radio
  • Cruise Control
  • Side Steps / Running Boards
  • Heating and Air Conditioning (Front/Rear)

Who drives?

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A regular commuter, like you. Most split the driving with a back-up driver. All drivers must have a good driving record, pass a drug test and take an online driving course, for the safety of our vanpoolers.

Why drive?

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Drivers ride FREE and can use the van for 100 personal miles each month! In return, drivers sign the lease agreement and submit monthly reports on ridership and mileage. Drivers must also keep the van clean and fueled with Triangle Transit’s gas card.

Note: The driver of a 7-passenger van must pay full fare to offset the higher fares.

Does the van provide door-to-door service?

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Vanpool drivers determine their own routes, but most drop off at your workplace door or in the parking lot. In the mornings, vanpoolers typically agree to meet at a central place, such as a church or shopping center.

Who takes care of maintenance and
insurance?

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Everything is covered by the rider fares. Triangle Transit’s repair shop maintains the vehicles, while providing a loaner van. Insurance is included for collision and liability, and has a low $250 deductible if the driver causes an accident. Plus, each vanpool has 24-hour roadside service, provided by Fuelman.

How are fares collected?

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Simply give your monthly fare to the vanpool driver (or other treasurer approved by Triangle Transit), who will then pay with a single check. The vanpool treasurer chooses whether to accept cash or check.

What is my commitment to the van?

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Drivers and riders make a month-to-month commitment and may leave the vanpool at any time after giving one month’s notice.

What if the driver is sick or on vacation?

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Each vanpool has a back-up driver in case the primary driver cannot drive for whatever reason.

What if I am sick or on vacation?

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As long as Triangle Transit receives the total amount due from each van, vanpool drivers are allowed to determine their own rules for vacation and sick-time.

What if I or the driver has an emergency
and needs to go home?

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All vanpoolers can use the free Emergency Ride Home program, so you never have to worry about getting stranded at work!

How do I get started?

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How many riders does it take to start a vanpool?

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The minimum amount to start a 7 passenger van would be 5 passengers. A 12 passenger van requires 9 passengers. Driver is included in count.

Check to see if there are any existing vanpools that match your commute or find out how to start a new vanpool.

More questions?
Send us an email or call the Vanpool Manager at (919) 485-7462.

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