Hopping in an Uber? Here’s How to Stay Safe

Ridesharing apps like Uber offer easy and convenient transportation for various occasions, from nights out to daily commutes. They allow you to skip the hassle of driving and parking. While it’s great to get a ride with just a few taps, it’s also necessary to remain mindful of personal safety. Uber’s latest U.S. Safety Report revealed 3,824 reported incidents of sexual assault, reports NBC News.

Although Uber has implemented numerous safety features, it’s still important for riders to take simple precautions. This ensures their safety and confidence while enjoying these convenient services.

So, how can you protect yourself and ride smart? Let’s dive into some easy safety tips to help you feel secure and relaxed on your next trip!

Understanding the Risks

We all love how Uber can get us from A to B with just a few taps. Still, it’s no secret that some rides have yet to be as carefree. Internal reports at Uber have highlighted some unsettling cases, including nonconsensual sexual acts and inappropriate behavior. 

The ongoing Uber sexual assault lawsuit is a direct result of these incidents involving hundreds of plaintiffs. NPR reports that 80 of these cases are consolidated in the northern district of California under Judge Breyer. This has breathed in hope among victims.

At any rate, these incidents are still rare. However, they’re serious enough that every rider should be aware of the potential risks. But hey, don’t worry! There are simple ways to enjoy ridesharing services while staying safe and stress-free.

What Can Go Wrong?

Aware of these risks, it’s important to consider specific scenarios that can endanger passengers.

Sometimes, passengers have reported cases where the driver wasn’t who they expected—leading to some pretty scary situations. In rare instances, US Court case reports show drivers taking detours or worse, leading to lawsuits and investigations. 

Furthermore, ridesharing vehicles often lack fixes for critical safety recalls, presenting a major risk for passengers. A significant percentage of ridesharing vehicles have unresolved safety recalls. As of August 2022, about 16% of ride-sourcing vehicles were reported to have one or more open safety recalls. This poses a risk to passengers, who are generally unaware of the recall status of the vehicles they ride in.

While these dangers are alarming, there are effective strategies to mitigate them.

Proven Tips for a Safer Ride

So, what can you do to make sure your next ride is safe and sound? Here’s your guide to ridesharing safety!

Before You Hop In

First things first—always double-check your ride! Uber advises verifying the driver’s photo, car model, and license plate match what’s shown in the app for safety. It only takes a second, and it’s one of the easiest ways to avoid any mix-ups.

Sharing is caring! Use Uber’s ridesharing feature to send your trip details to a friend or family member. This way, someone is always aware of your location and your estimated time of arrival.

During Your Ride

Where’s the best seat? The back seat! Sitting there gives you a bit more space and privacy. Keep an eye on your route, too—apps like Uber show you the way. So if your driver is going off course, don’t hesitate to ask them why. It’s your ride, after all!

Limit how much personal info you share during casual conversations with your driver. Talking about where you live or work could be risky, so it’s best to keep things light. If things take a wrong turn or you sense danger, RAINN assures that help is available. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is always accessible for assistance. Someone will help you quickly and anonymously. 

After the Ride

Once your ride is done, don’t forget to rate your driver and leave feedback. Your reviews help keep the service safe for everyone. If anything feels off, use the app to report it right away.

In serious cases like misconduct or assault, contact authorities and consider consulting a lawyer immediately, advises TorHoerman Law. Make sure you pick a law firm that specializes in helping victims of Uber-related incidents.

Uber’s Safety Fixes

Based on Uber Safety Reports, the company has improved its safety protocols, such as implementing background checks for drivers. Additionally, safety enhancements have been integrated into the application. However, some reports suggest the screening process requires further improvement. This was seen in the Florida cases, as reported by ABC News, where passengers faced identity theft and sexual assault.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I confirm the identity of my Uber driver?

When your Uber is en route, tap on the driver’s profile in the app. This will display the driver’s name, vehicle make, model, and license plate number. Once you are in the vehicle, ensure the driver matches the photo shown in your app. Remember, Uber drivers are aware of this safety measure and are prepared to confirm their identity.

When riding in a rideshare, is it safer to sit in the rear seat?

There are compelling reasons to choose the back over the front seat. Sitting in the back seat provides additional protection, particularly from airbags. These can be dangerous for passengers who do not meet certain height and weight criteria. Further, it allows passengers to maintain a safer distance from the driver, giving both the passenger and the driver more personal space.

If my driver takes a strange route, what should I do?

Use your phone to follow the journey and enquire as to why the driver seems to be veering off course. Always feel empowered to speak up when something doesn’t feel right. If you still feel unsafe, find a safe place to request the driver to stop and end the ride.

Ridesharing is ultimately about convenience, but that doesn’t mean we should overlook safety. You can ride wisely and securely while enjoying Uber’s benefits if you remain vigilant. Just follow these simple guidelines to stay safe. Let’s make every journey as enjoyable and carefree as it can be!