Ride-share services have become integral to modern transportation, offering convenient and affordable options for travelers around the world. However, as the popularity of these services increases, so do concerns about passenger safety. Reports indicate a rise in incidents ranging from accidents to more serious safety breaches, including assaults. To ensure your safety while using ride-share services, it’s critical to take the following proactive steps and stay aware of your surroundings during rides.
Verify the Driver and Vehicle
Before entering the vehicle, take a moment to verify both the driver and the car:
- Check the Driver’s Identity — Make sure the driver matches the photo and name provided in the ride-share app.
- Confirm the Vehicle — Verify that the vehicle details (make, model, and license plate number) match what’s listed in the app.
- Watch for Matching Details — Some apps provide a color-coding system in the app to match the driver’s vehicle light with the one shown in your app for additional verification.
Wait in a Safe Place
While waiting for your ride-share:
- Stay Inside — If possible, wait indoors until the app shows that the driver is at your pickup location.
- Choose Well-Lit Areas — If you must wait outside, choose a well-lit area that is populated with other people around.
Share Your Trip Details
Take advantage of in-app features or your own device to share your trip details:
- Use In-App Sharing Features — Most ride-share apps have options to share your ride details with friends or family. They can track your ride in real time.
- Inform Someone — Always let someone know where you’re going and who you’re with, especially if traveling late at night or to an unfamiliar location.
Follow Your Intuition
Trust your instincts about the ride:
- Be Alert — Pay attention to the route and any deviations. If something doesn’t feel right, ask the driver about it.
- Trust Your Gut — If you ever feel unsafe, ask the driver to stop in a safe place, and exit the vehicle.
Use Safety Features in the App
Familiarize yourself with the safety features available in your ride-share app:
- Emergency Button — Learn how to access and use the emergency call feature, which can connect you directly to emergency services and share your location with them.
- RideCheck — Some apps detect unusual stops or deviations and check on you through the app.
Maintain Communication on Your Own Device
Keep your phone handy and ready to use in case you need to make an emergency call:
- Keep Your Phone Charged — Ensure your phone is charged before you get into the car.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information — Be cautious about sharing personal information with the driver, such as your phone number or other contact details.
Rate and Report Your Ride
After your trip, take the time to rate your experience and report any issues:
- Provide Feedback — Rate your driver in the app and write a review if necessary.
- Report Concerns — If you had any safety issues during your ride, report them in the app to help improve safety for others.
Contact Altman & Altman, LLP For More Information
Using ride-share services can be a safe and effective way to get around, provided you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. By following these tips, you can help ensure a safer ride-sharing experience. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we’re here to offer advice and support on legal matters related to personal safety and ride-share incidents. Contact us today to learn more.