I think we have a big problem in the US because things are more spread out and public transit coverage is spotty to nonexistent outside major urban areas. I used public transportation for 25 years when I worked in Providence but now I work in Massachusetts and it's just not practical (RIPTA to Providence; MBTA to Boston; MBTA to Brockton; BAT to Easton; About 3.5 hours each way, schedules don't line up, still driving 28 miles, etc., etc.). Boy am I glad I bought my Insight last year.
Not to worry though, the Heritage Foundation has it all figured out (if we would only listen)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47EkL8crjNs
