Commute.org Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

The Peninsula Traffic Congestion Relief Alliance (“Commute.org” or “we”) is committed to protecting the privacy of users on Commute.org websites and mobile applications (collectively, the “Websites/Apps”). By accessing and using our Websites/Apps, you agree to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in this Privacy Policy and Terms of Use (“Policy”). This Policy outlines how we collect, use, and protect personal information for users of Commute.org’s Websites/Apps.

Changes to this Policy

This Policy is effective as of December 31, 2024, and may be amended from time to time. It is your responsibility to review this Policy and to check for notices of amendments.

Scope of Policy

This Policy applies to:

  • Main Website: Commute.org
  • CommuteStar Website: Accessible via my.commute.org or star.commute.org
  • CommuteStar App: Accessible via a mobile application

Purpose of Our Websites/Apps

The purpose of the Commute.org website is to make useful and practical information available to residents, businesses, and visitors about our programs and services.

The purpose of the CommuteStar website and the CommuteStar mobile application is to encourage and facilitate the use of alternative commute modes by people who live, work, or attend college in San Mateo County, California.

External Service Providers

The CommuteStar website and CommuteStar mobile application use the RideAmigos platform which is licensed from Right Click Solutions Inc., a third-party software provider. Information about RideAmigos’ use of your information is described in their Terms of Use and their Privacy Policy.

Information Collection

Registration Information

Certain Commute.org programs, such as CommuteStar’s rewards, incentives, and ride matching services, require user registration. During registration, we collect:

  • Name, email, home, and work addresses
  • Travel patterns and any additional information necessary to match you with potential commuting partners for ridesharing or to enroll in programs

Survey Information

We may also collect additional data via optional surveys . These surveys may request:

  • Details about your commute, demographics, travel patterns, and satisfaction with Commute.org programs

Data collected from surveys is used in aggregate form to evaluate program effectiveness, with a focus on equity principles and user satisfaction.

Aggregated Activity Data

We gather non-personal information about activity on our Websites/Apps, including IP addresses, browsing patterns, and page visits. This data helps us analyze website traffic and improve functionality.

Use of Cookies and Analytics

Cookies

Our Websites/Apps use cookies to enhance user experience. These small data files store information about your visit. Cookies are used solely to improve service quality and not for tracking personal information.

You may configure your browser to reject cookies; however, some features of the Websites/Apps may not function properly if cookies are disabled.

Google Analytics

We utilize Google Analytics to analyze site usage patterns. Google Analytics may store data, including your IP address. For more information, please see Google’s Privacy & Terms policies.

Use of Personal Information

Commute.org uses personal information only as necessary to:

  • Fulfill user requests for program participation and incentives.
  • Administer specific programs, such as Guaranteed Ride Home, Try Transit, and commuter challenges.
  • Connect users with ride matching partners.
  • Communicate updates, service improvements, or changes.

Disclosure of Information

We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. However, we may disclose it:

  • To fulfill program requirements, with information shared with authorized persons.
  • As required by agreements with public funding agencies (available upon request).
  • If disclosure is necessary to protect Commute.org’s legal rights, prevent fraud, or comply with law enforcement requests or other legal requirements.
  • In aggregate form as required by law or for analytical purposes, performance assessment, or public reporting. This information does not include personal details and cannot be used to identify individual users.

Access and Correction of Personal Information

You have the right to access and correct your personal information, subject to identity verification. Services that collect personally identifiable information also provide options for updating and reviewing that information.

Terms of Use

General Terms

By using the Websites/Apps, you agree to comply with applicable state and federal laws and refrain from any activity that is illegal, invasive of privacy, defamatory, infringes on intellectual property rights (e.g. publicity rights), or otherwise objectionable. Any unauthorized attempts to upload or alter information on our Websites/Apps are strictly prohibited.

CommuteStar-Specific Terms

To use CommuteStar and to be eligible for the programs, incentives, rewards, and challenges, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Live, work, or attend college in San Mateo County, California.
  • Provide accurate and complete information during registration.
  • Agree to update your registration data as necessary to keep it accurate.
  • Accept full responsibility for any ride matching arrangements made through the CommuteStar platform.

Commute.org does not guarantee the safety of ride matching arrangements and disclaims any responsibility for any actions of individuals participating in these arrangements. Users are encouraged to exercise caution and discretion in these interactions.

In consideration of being permitted to participate in this program, you hereby agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless Commute.org from and against any and all claims, demands, judgments or liability for damage to persons or property of any kind or nature arising directly or indirectly out of your use of the Websites/Apps or participation in the CommuteStar program.

Commute.org may terminate your access to CommuteStar at any time for any reason.

External Website Links

Our Websites/Apps may contain links to external websites that are not managed by Commute.org. We are not responsible for the content, privacy policies, or practices of these third-party sites.

Intellectual Property

All text, graphics, and other content on our Websites/Apps are protected by copyright. Users may print content for personal use only and must seek written permission from Commute.org for any other use.

Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability

Commute.org is not responsible for inaccuracies, errors, viruses, or other harmful elements encountered on the Websites/Apps. All materials are provided “as-is” without warranties. Users are solely responsible for personal safety and for any interactions arranged through the Websites/Apps. Commute.org disclaims liability for any damages arising from use or inability to use the Websites/Apps.

Accessibility

Commute.org complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request. For assistance, contact us using one of the methods shown in the Contact Information section below.

International Use and Data Transfer

This Policy applies to users within the United States. If you access our Websites/Apps from outside the U.S., please note that your information may be transferred to, stored in, or processed in the United States, where privacy laws may differ from those in your location.

Notice for Children

In accordance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), users under the age of thirteen must obtain parental consent before providing any personal information. Any information received from a child under thirteen without such consent will be deleted upon written request from the child’s parent or legal guardian.

Contact Information

For questions, concerns, or to exercise your privacy rights, please contact us:

  • Phone: (650) 588-8170
  • Email: alliance@commute.org
  • Address: Commute.org, 400 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 409, South San Francisco, CA 94080

Last Updated: December 31, 2024