How would people spend their extra time if their commutes could be reduced?

9.25.2009

The second annual IBM Commuter Pain survey was released this month detailing the impacts the recession has on urban motorists. The American commuter is now looking at re-evaluating the time spent getting to and from work. Here are some interesting facts from the IBM Commuter Pain survey.

  • 21% of respondents say that the recession has impacted the way they get to work
  • 17% carpool more, 30% work from home more, and 26% taking public transportation more
  • 44% of all drivers surveyed report traffic congestion increases their stress levels (-1% from 2008).
  • 52% of LA drivers agree. Stress is up 9% in Boston to 47% and down 9% in Dallas to 44%.
  • 16% report that traffic challenges negatively affect work or school performance
  • 11% reported getting less sleep due to travel time

How would people spend their extra time if their commutes could be reduced?

  • 52% would spend it with family/friends (+9% from 2008)
  • 37% would partake in recreation (+3% from 2008)
  • 37% would exercise (+6% from 2008)
  • 33% would sleep more (+2% from 2008)
Click here to download a copy of the IBM Commuter Survey