New website helps people hitch a ride

AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) - It's one of the first things we learn as kids: don't take rides from strangers. But, a new website called is helping college students hitch rides home for Thanksgiving.

The site connects drivers with passengers who are going to nearby places.

Many college students told 22News that they don't see a problem with this website.

Avery Foerst, a freshman at UMass Amherst, told 22News that "I think that would be really good especially for the environment." Chris Gardner, also a freshman at UMass, said "It's just easier than bringing someone up from home to come get you or deal with buses. It probably saves a lot of the hassle."

Ridebuzz's founder Jeff Brown told 22News that his site makes driving cheaper and greener.

He said it's also a great way to meet people.

He said traffic to ridebuzz.org has doubled over last year.

He said "more and more people understand the benefits of ride sharing."

But, getting into a car with strangers could be dangerous. Sgt. William Menard of the Amherst Police Department told 22News that users should "share their itinerary with family and friends."

He said providing information to loved ones is important.

That way if anything goes wrong, they'll be able to report it.

Also, he said people need to be aware that if anyone brings anything illegal into a car, the driver could face the consequences.
 

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