How to Safely Use Uber® or Lyft®

Rideshare services like Uber^® and Lyft^® have revolutionized the way we travel. However, ensuring your safety while using these services is paramount. Follow these essential tips to make every ride a secure one.

Request Your Ride From a Safe Location

One of the simplest yet most effective safety measures is to request your ride from a safe place. Waiting indoors until your ride arrives minimizes the time you’re exposed to potential threats outside. If you must wait outside, avoid being engrossed in your phone and stay aware of your surroundings.

Verify Your Driver

Before entering any vehicle, double-check the driver’s information. Ensure that the car’s license plate, make, and model match the details provided in the app. Additionally, ask the driver to confirm your name by posing the question, “Who are you here to pick up?” This practice adds an extra layer of verification.

Share Your Trip Details

Utilize the trip-sharing feature in your rideshare app to keep friends or family informed about your journey. This feature sends them a real-time update of your location and estimated time of arrival. In situations where app sharing is not available, tools like the SABRE^® Personal Safety App can notify your contacts of your whereabouts.

Sit in the Back Seat

Whenever possible, choose to sit in the back seat, especially if you’re traveling alone. Sitting in the back allows you to exit from either side of the vehicle and provides more personal space between you and the driver.

Keep Your Personal Information Secure

Protect your personal details by ensuring the app anonymizes your phone number and only shows general pickup and drop off areas to drivers. Additionally, consider setting your drop off point slightly away from your actual destination to further safeguard your address.

Trust Your Instincts

Your intuition is a powerful tool. If something feels off during your ride, don’t hesitate to end it and find a safer alternative. Both Uber and Lyft apps feature an emergency assistance button to call 911 directly if needed. Always trust your gut and take action if you feel unsafe.

Provide Feedback

After every trip, provide feedback about your experience. Reporting any issues helps to improve the safety and quality of rideshare services for everyone. Don’t overlook this step as it contributes to the overall safety and reliability of the service.

Ridesharing can be a safe and convenient way to travel if you take the right precautions. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that every trip is a secure one. Stay aware, stay safe, and enjoy your ride.

References: Protect your safety while riding with Uber | 10 Lyft and Uber Safety Tips Every Rider Should Know