How to stay safe in an Uber or Lyft
Millions of people use ride services Uber and Lyft every week. It’s convenient and reliable. But every now and then a startling story comes out that makes some people question whether that convenience and reliability are worth the risk.
Take the story about a South Carolina college student who got into a car she mistook for an Uber and was later killed. Fortunately, there are things you can do to ensure you stay safe when hailing your favorite ride service.
Here are six safety tips for using rideshare services:
1. Wait indoors for your ride
Standing outside with your phone in your hand could make you an easy target for predators pretending to be rideshare drivers. Instead, wait inside until your app tells you your driver has arrived. To be doubly sure, you can even call or text your driver to confirm their arrival.
2. Safety is in the details
When your driver does arrive, be sure the check the make, model and color of the vehicle, plus the license plate and driver’s name and photo. If it doesn’t all match up, decline the service and wait for another car.
3. Watch where you’re going
Follow the driver’s route on your GPS if you aren’t familiar with how to get to your destination. You’ll know pretty quickly if your driver isn’t headed in the right direction.
4. Keep your private info private
Don’t share your phone number, credit card information or any other personal data with your driver. Use only the app for communication and payment in order to keep your details secure.
5. Never ride up front
Unless you’ve got multiple people traveling with you, it’s always best to sit in the back seat. You’ll have a better chance of getting out of the vehicle if something goes awry.
6. Let someone know where you’re going
The apps for both Lyft and Uber allow you to share your driver’s information with other people. If you’re feeling even remotely uncomfortable or are in a strange city or neighborhood, it can be a good idea to let a friend or relative know your whereabouts.
The Uber app’s “Share Status” option lets you send detailed information including your driver’s name, photo, license plate and location. They can also track your trip and see your ETA.
Lyft’s similar “Send ETA” option lets you text your friend with information about the car, your driver and where you are on your route.
7. Uber RideCheck
RideCheck is a safety feature that uses GPS and smartphone sensors to detect unusual trip events like crashes, off-course travel, or unexpected long stops. You can check how to activate it here
8. Live Video on Teen Trips
Uber’s new feature gives parents more visibility when their teens are on the road.
Live video streaming for Uber teen accounts will allow a linked parent or guardian to view a teen’s ride in real time through the front-facing camera on the driver’s phone. This way parents can know their kids got to where they need in a safe and more secure way.
By following these safety tips, you can feel confident wherever your rideshare travels take you.
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