New study says car dependency makes Americans actively ar

A new study reveals that extreme car dependence in the United States is negatively impacting Americans’ quality of life. While having a car boosts overall life satisfaction, the research found that driving for more than 50% of out-of-home activities reduces happiness.

Conducted by Arizona State University, the study surveyed Americans on driving habits and life satisfaction, linking excessive driving to stress, reduced physical activity, financial strain, and social isolation.

The authors of the study emphasized the need for balanced transportation options, as many Americans lack alternatives to driving. Decades of policies prioritizing highways and suburban sprawl have entrenched car dependency, with half of all U.S. car trips under three miles.

Meanwhile, reports say that federal funding continues to favor road expansion over public transit improvements. Advocates urge greater inclusion of voices from people without cars—such as seniors, disabled individuals, and low-income families—in transportation planning to address these challenges.