SANDAG program helps cover emergency rides home for some commuters

If you use public transit or alternative forms of transportation to commute to work, a regional program will cover the cost of a ride in case of an emergency.

The San Diego Association of Governments launched its “Guaranteed Ride Home” program more than two decades ago, first offering it to commuters who vanpool or ride the bus to work. It’s since expanded to include other forms of transportation — carpools, public transit, bicycles and even those who walk.

More than 700 people used the program last fiscal year, SANDAG said. Officials said the program saw a decrease in participants during the COVID-19 pandemic, and numbers have stayed “relatively flat” since.

Participants in the program can be reimbursed up to $100 per trip, three times a year, for using taxis, ride-sharing services like Lyft or Uber, rental cars or transit services when they cannot use their usual mode of transportation due to unexpected circumstances. Qualifying emergencies include personal or family emergencies, unexpected overtime, bike problems such as a flat tire or theft, or if a car or van share ride is unavailable due to schedule changes or vehicle issues.

Travelers must submit an online form to be eligible for benefits. If an emergency happens, participants pay for their trip home and then within 30 days, submit a refund request to SANDAG with the necessary receipts and documentation.

The program is part of SANDAG’s goals of promoting sustainable transportation and reducing traffic congestion throughout San Diego County.