Study shows 64% of drivers think it’s OK to ask for gas money

Gas prices are high, and your friends wants to bum a ride. Do you ask for gas money?

According to a recent study conducted by a United Kingdom road safety charity 64% of drivers surveyed believe it’s socially acceptable for drivers to ask passengers for gas money. The study was conducted by IAM RoadSmart and surveyed 1,000 drivers.

“With the soaring cost of fuel, as well as so many other factors contributing to the cost-of-living squeeze, perhaps it comes as little surprise that so many drivers are open to asking passengers to contribute towards their petrol and diesel bills,” said Neil Greig, director of policy and research at IAM RoadSmart.

Younger drivers surveyed, ages 18-24, were more likely to ask for gas money, with 82% believing it was socially acceptable. To contrast that result, 58% of drivers over the age of 65 would ask for gas money from their passengers.

Greig offered some advice on how to keep improve fuel consumption.

“A few small changes in the way we prepare our vehicles and plan journeys can make a substantial difference to our fuel consumption,” Greig said. “Gentle acceleration, using the highest safe gear, keeping tyres well maintained and turning off the air-conditioning can all help keep fuel costs down while also improving road safety.”