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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

How is the best way to ask for a lift politely?

8 replies

CherryChoc · 24/03/2009 12:55

I can't drive. Every week my NCT friends and I meet up at one of our houses. About half the houses are in walking/busable distance so this is fine - but the other half are out in the sticks and so not covered by public transport, and too far to walk. I usually get a lift from one of the other ladies in these weeks but there isn't any agreed system in place and I usually end up texting all those who live near me on the morning or day before asking for a lift, unless someone has offered.

The problem is here that I feel really rude for asking. How would you word it? I think I'm being paranoid - it's not like I text saying "I need a lift" I usually say something like "Are we at Clare's house tomorrow? Could anyone give me a lift please? Hope you are all well. X" I have offered petrol money before and they all refused because they were going that way anyway.

I am going to learn to drive but we haven't got much money at the moment and insuring the car for an extra person will cost quite a lot (not to mention lessons and the time it takes to learn) so it might be a while.

OP posts:
BlueIsTheColour · 24/03/2009 13:05

You sound nice and polite just the way you are - if you lived near me I'd be happy to give you a lift

nametaken · 24/03/2009 13:06

I think you're wording it just fine. And you've offered petrol money. I don't see what the problem is.

TheProfiteroleThief · 24/03/2009 13:07

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

sagacious · 24/03/2009 13:07

The text is fine
TBH I would try to sort out a lift at the previous meeting (fellow non driver and I know how difficult it can be)

Offering petrol money is nice (I generally offer to buy the coffee/cake)

OhBling · 24/03/2009 13:07

Agree with Blue. I'd add that if the same person often gives you a lift - do something nice (but not OTT) for her. eg if you're baking something anyway, make a few extra for her or something similar.

Also, can you suggest a slightly higher proportion of events at your house - that way you don't need a lift and by hosting you're sort of paying everyone back?

JemL · 24/03/2009 13:08

I don't think you need to do anything different - they way you are approaching it is very polite, and I'm sure they are happy to give you a lift, especially as you are only asking when you really can't get there any other way.

alicet · 24/03/2009 13:33

Agree with everyone else that the way you are doing it is perfect.

Understand you worrying about appearing rude but try not to - I would be very very happy to give you a lift in this situation and would be horrified if you were worried about it!

MillyR · 24/03/2009 13:39

I really don't think you need to worry. You're being polite and people won't mind giving you a lift.

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