When commuting to work everyday, we all develop our own individual habits. For instance, when I'm stuck in traffic, I like to talk on the phone, listen to music, read the paper and eat a full course meal. But I knew that things had to change once I started car pooling ---the multi-tasking had to go.

There is also something called carpool and rideshare etiquette that needs to be addressed for every individual who is considering ride sharing or car pooling. The following are a few new basic dos and don'ts?

Don't be a driving instructor.

In other words, don't give the driver any unsolicited driving lessons. Shouting ?look out!? and ?don't let that idiot cut you off? can be very distracting to a driver when car pooling.
Don't be a chatter box.

If you're car pooling or ridesharing with co-workers or friends, that is one thing ? they are used to it. But when you're car pooling with strangers, talking too much can be very irritating, especially during the early morning hours. I remember car pooling to Brooklyn every morning and one particular passenger would talk non-stop. Even if I was pretending to be asleep to keep her from talking, she would still carry on a conversation. So, if no one else is talking, keep quiet.

Don't eat or drink.

When ridesharing in another car pooler's car, avoid eating. For example, the scent of an egg muffin sandwich can be overwhelming. You also want to avoid having any unnecessary accidents such as spilling coffee or tea all over the driver's car seat.
Be early.

When you're late, you are causing your fellow car pooling passengers to be late as well. You should be standing by your door at least 5 to 10 minutes before the driver arrives.

Hopefully, these dos and don'ts of car pooling and ridesharing will help you have a smooth commute into work every day. If you're still searching for a car pooling or ride sharing group, sites such as RideshareOptimizer.com can help you connect with a car pooling group in your area.