I think it is important to note that this isn't just a problem related geography or sprawl. I live in Fairfax County just outside of DC. It's pretty populous (1

I think it is important to note that this isn't just a problem related geography or sprawl. I live in Fairfax County just outside of DC. It's pretty populous (1.15 million) but getting anywhere is still a challenge if you don't live within walking distance of an Orange Line metro stop. This assumes that the metro hasn't caught on fire recently or that the line hasn't been shut down for multiple months for repairs. Bus timetables are so spread out that a 20 minute drive is a 2-3 hour bus ride in a lot of cases. Sprawl certainly plays a part but lack of investment in public transport is big reason why cars are so essential.