These subsidies exist because for decades there was no reasonable alternative to owning and occasionally using a car, and no alternative to a community allowing

These subsidies exist because for decades there was no reasonable alternative to owning and occasionally using a car, and no alternative to a community allowing car traffic on their streets. Since everyone is (or wants to be) a driver, and people need to be protected from the externalities created by driving (e.g., look both ways before crossing to avoid injury) you get the current system. If you look at gas taxes, insurance regulation, and toll policies-- the subsidies aren't going to be rolled back. The unsafe, inefficient, and distant are protected from the consequences of their actions and choices.