Compared to European countries, the current public transportation system in the United States is not considered by the public as a convenient option for traveling. Although larger cities offer better public transportation, there are only a few cities in the U.S. that have good railway systems. A study made by the American Public Transportation Association proves this, noting that only one half of Americans have access to good public transportation. Public buses can be another option, but public buses aren't always punctual, and may not always go to specific locations on small streets.
When you're going shopping or purchasing groceries, going by public transportation can be a hassle. You have to carry all the things that you purchased, and sometimes, carry your cargo and make your way through the crowd of passengers. Most people who experience this problem often opt to purchase their own vehicle because of the convenience that it offers when transporting cargo.
Using public transportation means you have to squeeze your way through a lot of other commuters especially during rush hours. For some people who are not used to small spaces which can often become cramped, using public transportation can be an awful experience.
Another issue why most people avoid using public transportation is the notion that it is less safe than having a personal means of transportation.
Since public transportation follows a specific route, there is no guarantee that you will be able to save time during travel. When compared to driving in your own vehicle, public transportation can usually take 15 to 20 minutes longer when going to the same location. This is especially true if the public transportation takes the most congested route along busy roads.