If we didn’t have access to a car, calling a taxi service is what we used to do. While we still have that option, times have certainly changed. Using rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft seem like common practice nowadays. While these services have made getting from place to place easier, have you ever wondered about the risks? Before someone drives for Uber, the company does put them through a screening process. But, there are also several steps you can take to ensure your safety while using the service.
Get your ride indoors
Instead of waiting outside by yourself while checking your phone for your ride’s arrival, wait inside until the app shows that your driver has arrived to pick you up.
Check Your Ride
Always be sure to check the make and model of the vehicle you ordered a ride from. The driver’s photo, the vehicle’s license plate number, and the make and model of the vehicle are all provided for you on the Uber app. Never get into a car where the vehicle or identity of the driver doesn’t match what is listed clearly in the app.
Ask the driver to confirm your name
Along with the Check Your Ride safety tips, it’s a good idea to ask the driver to confirm your name before entering the vehicle. Your driver will see your first name in their app. Your driver’s name shows up in your app, too. To be safe, ask your driver who they are scheduled to pick up. The driver may also ask you for your name to confirm the correct pick up and also to give them peace of mind.
Be a back-seat rider
Sit in the back seat. This will help to ensure your safety and that you can exit the vehicle on either side. Watch out for any traffic as before you exit the vehicle. Sitting in the back seat also gives both yourself and the driver some personal space.
Always wear your seat belt
Other than the fact that it’s the law, wearing your seatbelt is the most effective way to prevent injuries or death related to car accidents.
Share your trip information with your loved ones
While you are on route, press “Share trip status” in the app to share your driver’s name, photo, license plate, and location with a close friend or family member. This will give both yourself and those who care about you peace of mind knowing you’re safe. This also will give them a text message or push notification that helps track your trip and ETA.
Protect your personal information
Uber uses technology that allows you to keep your personal information secure by keeping it anonymous. Your pickup and dropoff addresses are also stored in a driver’s trip history. In select areas, the Driver app will also only show the general area in which a trip began and ended.
Follow your intuition
If you ever feel unsafe or uncertain about a particular car or driver, you can call 911 by using the Emergency Button located in the Uber app. The app allows you to share your location and trip details in real time with the 911 dispatcher. Always make sure that your phone is charged before accepting a ride with any rideshare service.
Be kind and respectful
Being kind and respectful of drivers and/or fellow passengers is a good way to keep them and yourself safe during your trip. Don’t look for trouble.
Give feedback about your trip
Any time you use Uber, once your trip is concluded, the app will ask you to rate your trip. By giving your feedback, you’re helping to keep Uber safe for other patrons. Uber has a response team that will follow up with you in case you have a safety issue while on your trip.