From pickup to drop-off: Ensuring your safety in rideshares
Ridesharing made moving around the city much easier. With just a few taps on your mobile device, you can have a ride at your door.
Even with all the convenience, always look out for your safety. Whether visiting friends or catching a ride home from work, observe some basic safety tips. These make your experience smoother and more secure. We’ve put together some helpful precautions you can take on your next trip. Let’s make it convenient and safe for you.
Pre-ride safety tips
Safety begins way before your ride starts. There are a few things that you should do before getting inside the car. They are as follows:
Choose a Reputable Service
Always use a reputable rideshare service. Companies like Uber and Lyft have made a name for themselves. They have developed a number of features to keep their passengers safe. By choosing a reputable service, you reduce the risk of encountering unsafe situations. Smaller or lesser-known services might not have the same level of security nor the support.
Verify the Ride
When the ride arrives, make sure to verify the driver and vehicle before you get on board. Always check that the driver’s photo, license plate, and details of the vehicle match what is in the app. This confirms that you get into the right car with the right driver. Here’s how:
- When the car arrives, just take a second to check your license plate number against the one posted in your app.
- Check the driver’s photo and name, visible in the app. In case of doubt, ask the driver to identify himself/herself clearly and rightly.
- Check the car’s make and model. It should match the description in the app.
If anything doesn’t match or if you don’t feel right, do not get in. Cancel the ride and request a new one. It is always better to practice caution than to get into a situation that may be unsafe.
Share Your Trip
Rideshare apps have an option that riders can use to share trip details with friends or family. Use it every time you take a ride. When you share your trip, the person you’ve shared it with will get automatic access to your real-time location.
On the ride
Once you’re in the car, there are a few things you can do to stay safe throughout your trip. The following tips will help you remain alert and in control while still following rideshare etiquette.
Seating
Sitting in the backseat is usually safer as you are at a comfortable distance from the driver. It also provides an optimal vantage point to survey the surroundings and your route. Plus, you can exit the vehicle quickly if the need arises.
Track Your Route
Rideshare apps allow passengers to track their route in real-time. Compare the recommended route with the one your driver is taking. If they start deviating from the route significantly or if they take any unusual detour, don’t be afraid to ask about it.
Inquire if they are taking an alternate route due to traffic or some road problem. If their explanation doesn’t make sense, ask to be dropped off at a safe and public place and get in touch with the rideshare company.
Stay Alert
Using headphones or being engrossed on your phone diverts your attention. Keep your eyes on the road and observe everything around you. This way, if anything seems off, you’ll notice and react quickly. If you’re feeling uncomfortable or sense danger, trust your instincts. Ask the driver to end the ride early and get off in a safe public area.
Post-ride safety
Even after your ride ends, there are some things you can do to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Check Your Belongings
Make it a point to collect all your stuff before leaving the vehicle. Be sure to check the seat and floor. Losing something important is a headache and can put your personal information at risk. For example, if you leave your phone or wallet behind.
Rate and Review
Take a minute to rate your driver and review your ride. Your feedback helps improve the service for everyone.
Rideshare incident legal awareness
While most rides go through without a hitch, it’s still good to know what to do if something does go wrong. Knowing your legal rights and how to get help can make all the difference.
Know Your Rights
As a rideshare passenger you have rights, so learn about them. For example, you have the right to a safe and respectful ride. If your driver breaks these rules, you can report them.
When Should You Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer?
If you get in a rideshare accident or if anything unpleasant happens during the ride, know that help is readily available. Contact a rideshare accident lawyer to discuss your options. They specialize in handling such cases to ensure your rights are protected. Knowing when to reach out for legal assistance can provide you with the support you need.
Stay safe when using rideshares
Your safety inside a rideshare vehicle greatly depends on your proactiveness. As the saying goes, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. From checking the details to staying alert during the ride, every little step counts in ensuring your safety. Don’t hesitate from seeking legal advice if anything goes wrong.
