Frequently asked Questions

Basics

  • What is LaLaAuto and how does it work?

    LaLaAuto connects people traveling in the same direction: Do you have a car with empty seats? Great, offer a ride! Looking for an affordable way to travel? Perfect, you'll find plenty of suitable offers with us!

    The advantages are clear: You not only save money (as a passenger, up to 75% compared to train travel) but also help protect the environment. And the best part? You'll meet great people along the way - many of our users have made wonderful new connections through shared rides.

  • How much does LaLaAuto cost?

    The good news: LaLaAuto is completely free! No hidden fees and no membership costs.

    Do you like LaLaAuto and want to support us? Then tell your friends and acquaintances about LaLaAuto!

Registration & Login

  • How do I sign up for LaLaAuto?

    It's free and easy: Click this link, enter your details, and you're ready to go! If you no longer wish to use LaLaAuto, you can delete your account at any time.

  • I'm still waiting for my confirmation email - what can I do?

    Don't worry, this can be quickly resolved. Here are the key steps:

    • Check your spam folder
    • Allow about 15 minutes for the email to arrive
    • Make sure your inbox isn't full
    • Verify that your email address is spelled correctly

    Still haven't received the email? Simply click here and we'll send you the confirmation again.

  • Can't log in - what should I do?

    We can solve this together. Please check these points:

    • Have you clicked the activation link in the confirmation email?
    • Are cookies enabled in your browser? We need them for login
    • Sometimes clearing your browser cookies and trying again helps

    Still not working? Send us a quick message - we're happy to help!

Password & Email Management

Costs & Payment

  • What costs should I expect?

    LaLaAuto itself is free. As a passenger, you only pay the ride fare directly to the driver - usually between 5 and 8 cents per kilometer. This is fair and affordable for everyone.

    For example: Berlin-Hamburg (approx. 290 km) costs about €20-25 - significantly cheaper than the train.

    Payment is straightforward: Cash when you get in or during the ride.

  • How and when do I pay for the ride?

    It's quite flexible: You pay directly to the driver - either when getting in, during a break, or upon arrival. The timing is usually specified in the listing or discussed before the trip.

    Practical tip: Please try to have the exact amount ready - it makes things easier for everyone!

Insurance & Safety

  • Am I insured during the ride?

    Yes, you can rest assured: As a passenger, you're automatically covered by the driver's car liability insurance. This is legally required and applies to all passengers - at no extra cost.

  • How does LaLaAuto ensure safety?

    Your safety is our top priority. We have several measures in place:

    • All users must register with real data
    • You can request the license plate number before the trip - ask for it through our messaging system to keep it documented
    • Female users have the option to select "Women Only" rides when creating a trip

Basics for Passengers

  • How do I find a suitable ride?

    Finding a ride is easy: Use our search form or browse the locations from A-Z. There you'll find all current ride offers with prices, departure times, and important details.

  • How much does a typical ride cost?

    Costs usually range between 5 and 10 cents per kilometer. Some examples:

    • Berlin - Hamburg (290 km): about €20-30
    • Munich - Frankfurt (400 km): about €25-35
    • Cologne - Hamburg (420 km): about €25-50

    You'll save money compared to both train travel and the costs of driving your own car (fuel plus parking fees).

  • How safe is ridesharing?

    LaLaAuto places the highest priority on passenger safety:

    • Drivers are registered with us
    • You can request the vehicle's license plate number in advance through our messaging system
    • Female passengers can specifically search for female drivers

    Most rides lead to great experiences and sometimes even new friendships.

Booking & Preparation

  • I've found a suitable ride - what's next?

    Here's how to secure your ride:

    • Call the driver at the provided numbers
    • Introduce yourself briefly and mention the date and route
    • Clarify important details like meeting point and whether you can bring luggage and how much

    Tip: The earlier you inquire, the better your chances of getting a seat.

  • What should I clarify with the driver before the trip?

    These points are particularly important:

    • Exact meeting point and time
    • Your luggage (type and amount)
    • If you're bringing a pet (must be discussed in advance!)
    • When and how the fare will be paid
    • Phone numbers in case of delays

  • How much luggage can I bring?

    This depends on the available space in the car. Important luggage rules:

    • Inform the driver about your luggage in advance
    • A normal suitcase or backpack is usually fine
    • For bulky items (e.g., bicycles), always ask beforehand
    • Remember: Other passengers will have luggage too

On the Day of Travel

  • How should I prepare for the ride?

    This checklist will help you prepare:

    • Charge your phone and save the driver's number
    • Have trip details printed or readily available
    • Bring the exact fare
    • Plan enough time to reach the meeting point

  • What should I do if I'm running late?

    If you realize you'll be late:

    • Inform the driver as early as possible
    • Estimate how many minutes you'll be delayed
    • Stay reachable
    • Keep the driver updated about your location

  • What should I keep in mind during the ride?

    For a pleasant journey for everyone:

    • Ask before eating or drinking in the car
    • Respect the driver's rules (e.g., music, smoking)
    • For longer trips: discuss breaks together
    • Be considerate towards all passengers

After the Ride

  • What if I've forgotten something in the car?

    Don't panic! Here's what to do:

    • Contact the driver directly using their saved number
    • Describe exactly what you forgot and where it might be
    • Discuss how you can get your items back

    Tip: Always check your seat and the floor area before getting out - especially during night rides!

Basics for Drivers

  • How can I find passengers?

    With LaLaAuto, you can share your travel costs and find pleasant company for your journey:

    • Create a free ride offer using the ride form
    • Specify how many seats you're offering
    • Enter start, destination, and possible stops
    • Set a fair price per person

    Your offer will then automatically be shown to all matching passengers.

  • How do I calculate a fair price?

    A fair price is crucial for successful ride sharing. Here's how to find the right balance:

    • The typical range is 5-10 cents per kilometer per person
    • The total amount from all passengers should not exceed your actual costs

  • How many passengers should I take?

    This depends on your car and preferences:

    • 2-3 passengers are optimal for most cars
    • With 4 passengers, the back seat can get crowded
    • Remember to consider space for luggage

    Important: Inform your passengers in advance if three people would need to sit in the back seat.

Trip Preparation

  • How do I create an attractive ride offer?

    These details make your offer particularly appealing:

    • Describe your car (comfort, space, features)
    • Specify if smoking is allowed
    • Mention if you play music and what kind
    • List possible stops along the way

  • What's the best way to communicate with interested passengers?

    Good communication is key for a relaxed journey:

    • Respond promptly to inquiries
    • Clarify important details like luggage and meeting point
    • Exchange phone numbers for the day of travel
    • Confirm bookings through our system in writing

  • Which meeting points work best?

    Good meeting points include:

    • Train stations or central bus stops
    • Large parking lots with good public transport access
    • Well-known, easy-to-find locations
    • Places with short-term parking options

During the Trip

  • What should I consider at the meeting point?

    For a smooth start:

    • Be punctual at the agreed meeting point
    • Keep your phone handy
    • Verify you're picking up the right person
    • Handle payment right away

    If you're running late: Inform your passengers promptly and stay reachable.

  • How do I ensure a pleasant journey?

    These points help create a good atmosphere:

    • Keep your car clean and well-ventilated
    • Drive carefully and follow traffic rules
    • Take regular breaks during longer trips
    • Respect if someone prefers not to chat

  • When should payment be made?

    You have several options:

    • Right when passengers get in (safest option)
    • During a break
    • Upon arrival (only with trusted passengers)

    Tip: Specify payment terms in your listing to avoid misunderstandings.

Legal & Insurance

  • How am I covered by insurance?

    Key insurance information:

    • Your passengers are covered by your car liability insurance
    • Insurance coverage applies to all registered passengers
    • Taking passengers for cost-sharing is legally acceptable

    Important: The total fare must not exceed your actual costs - otherwise, insurance coverage could be at risk.

  • What are my responsibilities as a driver?

    Keep these points in mind:

    • Your car must be roadworthy and insured
    • You need a valid driver's license
    • Only drive when well-rested and sober
    • Follow all traffic rules
    • Never transport more people than you have seats for