Five key safety tips for frequent ride-sharing passengers
Photo by Fikri Rasyid on Unsplash
Ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft, and others have become a go-to transportation option for millions of people around the world. They offer convenience, flexibility, and affordability. But like any other mode of travel, there are safety considerations you must keep in mind.
Whether you’re heading out for a night on the town or using the service for your daily commute, taking a few precautions is essential. These steps can help ensure your safety every time you hail a ride.
Here are five things to make sure of before you get into that ride:
1. Verify the driver and vehicle details
One of the easiest and most important safety measures you can take is verifying both the driver and the vehicle before getting in. Ride-sharing platforms provide detailed information about your ride, which makes it easy for passengers to check if they’re getting into the right vehicle.
What to check:
- Driver name and photo: Always ensure the driver’s name and photo match the details in your app.
- Vehicle make, model and license plate: Confirm the car’s make, model, and license plate number before entering the vehicle.
- Driver ratings: Check the driver’s ratings and feedback from previous passengers. A higher rating (generally above 4.5 stars) often indicates a reliable driver.
Taking a moment to confirm these details ensures you’re getting into the right vehicle and can feel confident about your safety throughout the ride.
2. Share your trip information with a trusted person
Safety should always be your top priority when using ride-sharing services, especially if you’re traveling alone or in unfamiliar areas. While most drivers undergo thorough screening before being hired, it’s important to remember that not all intentions are good.
Recent reports have raised concerns about passenger safety, particularly regarding assault incidents. For instance, in 2022, CNN reported that Uber revealed a staggering 3,824 cases of severe sexual assault between 2019 and 2020 alone.
Additionally, by 2023, NPR reported that Uber had received nearly 6,000 sexual assault claims in the U.S. over just the past two years.
Considering these alarming statistics, it’s essential to share your trip details with a trusted person. Most ride-sharing apps make it easy to send your trip information. These include the driver’s name, vehicle details, and estimated arrival time to a friend or family member.
This ensures that someone always knows where you are and can monitor your journey if something feels off.
If at any point you feel uncomfortable or sense something isn’t right, don’t hesitate to reach out to your trusted contact. These simple steps can provide an extra layer of safety and give you peace of mind throughout your ride.
3. Check your passenger insurance coverage
Passenger transportation insurance is crucial for your protection when using ride-sharing services, and it’s important to understand the details of your coverage fully.
The National Institutes of Health reports that ride-sharing still makes up a small fraction of overall road use in most U.S. metropolitan areas. However, it accounts for up to 13% of vehicle miles traveled in certain cities.
So, what does this mean for safety? Many ride-hailing vehicles are newer and equipped with advanced safety features, such as lane departure warnings, offering enhanced protection compared to older cars. However, with increased mileage, ride-sharing vehicles experience more wear and tear, which raises the risk of accidents over time.
That’s why it’s essential to ensure you’re covered by comprehensive passenger transportation insurance. According to OTTIS, this type of insurance typically covers injuries, accidents, or damages during your ride, including medical expenses and vehicle damage. Some policies also protect against driver negligence or criminal activity.
The right insurance can provide peace of mind in the event of an accident or any other incidents that may arise during your ride. Before you book your next trip, take a moment to check the insurance coverage offered by the service. Knowing that you’re fully protected can help you feel more at ease as you travel.
4. Keep personal items secure
While ride-sharing services are designed to be safe, passengers should still take steps to protect their personal belongings. With millions of rides happening daily, lost items are unfortunately quite common. Here’s an interesting fact: in 2022, USA Today reported that nearly 1,000 items were lost on April 5th alone! Can you imagine people forgetting that many things in just one day? You definitely don’t want to find yourself in that group, right?
Tips to secure your items:
- Keep your purse, bag, or any valuable items in sight at all times. Avoid leaving them on the seat beside you where they could easily be forgotten or taken.
- If you need to place something in the trunk, double-check before you exit the vehicle.
Though ride-sharing services usually have a process for retrieving lost items, it’s always better to stay vigilant and keep your belongings close.
5. Follow common-sense safety practices
Even with all the safety features that ride-sharing services provide, it’s important for passengers to continue practicing common-sense safety habits. These include actions that apply to any type of transportation.
Best practices:
- Sit in the back seat: For more space and easier access to exit the vehicle in case of an emergency.
- Always wear your seatbelt: According to NHTSA, seat belts reduce the risk of serious injury by 45%. Be sure to buckle up, whether you’re in the front or back seat.
- Avoid distractions: Stay focused during the ride and avoid activities like arguing with the driver or using your phone excessively. This ensures both your safety and the driver’s attention on the road.
- Know your route: While the app tracks your route, it’s always helpful to have a general sense of where you’re going, especially in unfamiliar areas.
By adopting these basic safety measures, you can greatly minimize the likelihood of facing any problems during your ride.
FAQs
What safety measures do ride-sharing services implement?
Ride-sharing services generally include various safety features. These include background checks for drivers, in-app emergency support, GPS tracking, and safety guidelines for both drivers and passengers. Certain services provide a “Share My Trip” feature, enabling users to send their trip information to friends or family for extra security.
What steps should I take if I feel uncomfortable or unsafe during my ride?
If you ever feel uneasy during your ride, use the emergency button in the app to reach out to local authorities. It’s also a good idea to share your trip details in real-time with a friend or family member for further reassurance.
Are ride-sharing services insured?
Yes, ride-sharing services typically provide insurance coverage for trip-related accidents. However, this coverage varies by company and region. It’s a good idea to check the company’s policies to get a clear understanding of their insurance coverage.
Overall, using ride-sharing services can be a convenient and efficient way to travel, but safety should always be a priority. By keeping these things in mind and following basic safety practices, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
With ride-hailing services becoming an increasingly significant part of our daily lives, taking these precautions will give you confidence.
