Rideshare Safety for Drivers and Passengers

Rideshare platforms continue to grow in popularity. This mode of transportation offers convenience for those who prefer not to drive themselves or to take public transit. Passengers can choose the time and vehicle type they prefer. Drivers can make a living using ridesharing or take this gig economy job to simply earn some extra money. This offers drivers some flexibility.

Since both drivers and passengers are independent, the safety of both parties is a shared responsibility. Here are some tips for both parties when it comes to rideshare safety.

Safety Tips for Passengers

Share Your Ride: Many rideshare apps allow you to ride with other passengers along your route. This offers a bit more safety and can result in a more reasonable fare.

Alert Your Destination Contact: Widely used rideshare apps offer a feature that allows you to share your trip progress and location with your trusted contacts. This feature allows your contact to see where the vehicle is and what the ETA is.

Verify Driver and Vehicle Details: Most apps will let you know your driver’s name and photo; vehicle make and model, and license plate number. When the car, SUV, or van arrives, verify the vehicle is what you saw when you were connected with a driver. Don’t get in if these don’t match. Ask the driver to verify your name, which appears in their app.

Choose Pick-up and Drop-off Locations Wisely: Make sure you are being picked up in a well-lit area, preferably a busy location. The same goes for your drop-off site, even if that means you are being dropped off at a bright intersection rather than a dark private driveway.

Avoid Intoxication: Many of us prefer to use a rideshare service if we are anticipating having a few drinks while out. While this is a smart plan, you still want to remain sober enough that you don’t place yourself in a vulnerable situation.

Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right when your ride shows up, you’re likely correct about that feeling. Your gut will tell you that getting into the vehicle isn’t a good idea. Request another ride.

Keep Your Phone on and Handy: Having your smartphone charged and turned on gives you access to call a friend or the authorities if anything feels unsafe. Likewise, use your phone to report any inappropriate behavior immediately. After the ride, contact the rideshare company if you experienced an unsafe incident.

Safety Tips for Drivers

Confirm Passenger Identity: Verify the identity of your passenger before accepting the assignment. You may be able to view a photo of the passenger in the app. If the passenger doesn’t look anything like the photo, you can refuse entry into your vehicle.

Listen to Your Gut: When you arrive at the pickup location and something feels off, trust your instincts and lock the car doors. Don’t stop to pick up the passenger. Report to the company why you didn’t complete the rideshare in case the rider files a complaint.

Set Boundaries: You have the right to set clear boundaries for appropriate behavior for any passenger. Communicate in a professional manner if you think the passenger or group of passengers is behaving rudely or vandalizing your vehicle. Try to remain calm and polite so that the situation doesn’t escalate.

Invest in Preventative Tools and Technology: Remember COVID? Many rideshare drivers installed clear plastic dividers to separate themselves from their passengers for health reasons. These shields are still a good idea to give you space from an unruly passenger. Another really smart protective measure is a dashcam that records the passenger in the back seat. You must verify that this is allowed by the company.

Keep Your Phone Nearby: Have easy-to-access emergency contact numbers at the ready on your phone. Make sure the phone is charged, on, and within reach. If you work for one of the top rideshare companies, they have apps that allow you to share real-time locations with a trusted contact.

Report Incidents Immediately: If you are experiencing aggressive or verbally abusive behavior, report it promptly to both the company and law enforcement.

Conclusion

Whether you drive for a rideshare company or are a frequent passenger, there are things you can do improve your safety. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is a good resource for advice on boosting rideshare safety. Follow these tips and remember to stay aware by using common sense.