Privileges of Private vs. Public Transportation: A Personal Insight

Travel preferences vary among individuals, which is why the debate over whether to use private or public transportation persists. For me, owning a car has been a necessity for decades, and I plan to maintain that freedom for at least the coming five years. This essay explores the advantages of private transportation, particularly in the context of a rural area where public transportation is less reliable.

Advantages of Private Transportation

First and foremost, private transportation provides unparalleled freedom. In my case, a car has been my primary mode of transportation for daily and out-of-town journeys. Although I require assistance due to certain health conditions, I still insist on owning a car. A car offers flexibility, allowing me to travel at any time, which is especially crucial when medical emergencies arise. I was able to assist an injured friend at 2 AM using my car, a service that public transport couldn't provide due to its limited operating hours.

Secondly, private transportation offers convenience and time efficiency. Commuting by private vehicle ensures that I can arrive precisely when I need to, be it for work or medical appointments. Public transportation, on the other hand, often requires lengthy waiting times and frequent stops, making it impractical for spur-of-the-moment trips. In my rural setting, the bus system poses challenges, taking up to 3 hours for a 40-minute drive, with most of that time spent waiting.

Lastly, private transportation allows for greater convenience and load capacity. Commuting to a facility like Costco would be cumbersome without a car. The 16-passenger bus with its noisy and uncomfortable ride makes such a journey unfeasible. Additionally, public transportation is inefficient with numerous transfers, which are time-consuming and stressful, especially during inclement weather.

Pesthetic Observations

For many, public transportation is an excellent alternative as a primary mode of transport. However, in my area, that is not the case. Public transit operates on a reduced schedule, particularly during weekends and holidays, leading to extended waiting times. In Vancouver, one can track buses through their phone for precise arrival times, but the experience is far from ideal. The noise and rattling of the buses, especially the 16-passenger “short” buses, are a significant drawback. Furthermore, the Skytrain, used for long-distance travel, is known for its ear-piercing noise, causing discomfort.

Alternative Solutions

For those who cannot afford to own a car, car-sharing programs are a viable option. However, these programs often face issues with availability and complexity compared to simply hopping into a personal vehicle. As technology progresses, the advent of self-driving cars might provide a better solution, reducing the complexity and increasing convenience. For now, car ownership remains the preferred choice for many individuals who value their autonomy and time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while public transportation undoubtedly has its advantages, particularly in urban settings, for many rural and semi-rural areas, private transportation enjoys significant privileges. These include greater freedom, convenience, and time efficiency. As long as one is financially capable and able to adhere to licensing requirements, owning a car remains a preferred mode of travel.