Rideshare Services

Every day, over 18.7 million rides are shared globally. From Uber to Lyft, getting a ride's always been challenging. As convenient as they can be, sharing rides with strangers carries potential dangers.

More stringent background checks are being employed as people focus more on protecting their privacy and security. A rideshare driver is supposed to be trustworthy and part of middle-class American life. How do you know you're getting into the right car?

Here are some tips to stay safe when using rideshare services. Read below for everything you need to know before getting in the car.

Tell Someone Where You Are Going

You should let someone know where you're going before you take the ride. Whether it's a friend, family member, or coworker, they should know your destination and estimated arrival time. This gives you a sense of security and allows someone to reach out if something goes wrong.

Then give them regular updates throughout the ride. You can check in via text message or a voice call to let them know you've arrived safely at your destination. It's also a good idea to share your estimated arrival time with your contact, so they'll know when to expect a check-in from you.

Verify the License Plate

When using rideshare services, one of the most critical steps to stay safe is verifying the license plate. It's essential to double-check that the vehicle's license plate that pulls up matches the one provided to you by the service. Once you've verified that the plate matches, taking other steps to ensure safety is essential.

Have the Drive Confirm Your Name

A good precaution to take is to always have the driver confirm your name. When you order a ride, make sure to provide your name and also ask the driver to repeat it back to you. This will ensure that you are getting into the right vehicle and being taken to the right destination.

It will also allow you to double-check that the driver is who they say they are through the company. Ensuring the driver confirms your name is an easy way to stay safe and protect yourself using rideshare services.

Check The Surroundings

Being aware of your surroundings can go a long way in keeping you safe. Before entering the car, take a look around you. Pay attention to suspicious vehicles and be aware of pedestrians who may be watching you from nearby.

If you ever see something that appears to be threatening, do not get in the car and instead go to an area with more people than the current location. Additionally, consider taking pictures within the eyesight of the car. This can provide evidence if anything goes wrong.

Being a Back-Seat Rider

Make sure you sit in the backseat for maximum safety. Not only is this better for you in the case of a head-on collision, but it also puts you in control of the door locks and gives you more room to maneuver if necessary.

Never leave your belongings in plain sight, and always carry your belongings with you. Sit in the back seat near the window with your phone and other valuables closed but out of view. Be aware of any conversations the driver is having.

Once you have arrived at your destination, avoid being a lingering passenger. Move swiftly out of the vehicle and onto your own path. Being alert and aware of your surroundings will help keep you safe when using rideshare services.

Request Your Ride Inside

To ensure your personal safety, always make sure to request a ride inside. Waiting on the sidewalk or outside a building puts you in an unsafe and vulnerable situation. If you're at a private residence, make sure to provide the driver with the address and a way to contact you ahead of time.

Always Wear Your Seatbelt

Safety should always be at the forefront of your mind. A primary rule for staying safe is to always wear your seatbelt. Even if it is a short ride, you never know what can happen, such as an unexpected stop.

Make sure that you have adjusted the seatbelt to fit you correctly and that it is secured tightly before the car begins to move. Take a few moments to make sure that it is fastened securely and that your body is correctly aligned with it.

It is also smart to check and ensure that the driver is wearing their seatbelt. If you find yourself uncomfortable for any reason, try to use another service instead or exit the vehicle before it begins to move.

Rideshare Accidents

If you were unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident while using the rideshare service, it is always wise to consult with a lyft accident lawyer who specializes in this kind of case. They will be able to advise you on your rights and what steps to take to ensure your safety and legal situation.

In an Emergency, Call 911 via The App

During the ride, remain aware of the route the driver takes and stay connected. Above all, if you sense danger, contact 911 via the app. The driver's rating is also a good indicator of their personal behavior and should be checked by the rider before starting the ride.

Keep Yourself Safe When Using Rideshare Services

To stay safe when using rideshares, always visually confirm your driver's information when entering the vehicle, never share personal information, and always follow your intuition.

As long as you follow these tips, you can have an enjoyable, safe experience with rideshare services. Contact your local government if you ever feel threatened by a rideshare service.

Did you find this article on ride safety helpful? If so, check out the rest of our blog for more informative posts.