Ridesharing is all about using apps like Uber and Lyft to get a ride when you need one. You don’t need to worry about owning a car, waiting for a taxi, or relying on public transportation. It’s also really convenient. You just have to pull out your phone, open the app, and in a few taps, a driver will come to pick you up.
These drivers use their own personal cars, which makes ridesharing more flexible and available almost everywhere. Whether you’re heading to work, meeting friends, or running errands, ridesharing has become one of the easiest ways to get around.
Inasmuch as these trips offer the ultimate form of convenience for people who want to get around, we can’t overlook the fact that unfortunate situations also happen before, during, or after transit. In such cases, you’d need the help of rideshare accident lawyers to help you navigate the legal maze that is now before you.
Essential Tips for Safety While Ridesharing
Rideshares are a convenient means to get around while saving costs, but you cannot afford to trade security for lesser fees.
Here are a few tips that can help you ensure that your rideshare journey is safe.
1. Wait in a Safe Spot
When you’re waiting for your ride, make sure you’re in a safe place. You don’t want to be standing alone on a street corner looking at your phone. If you do this, you’d just be setting yourself up as bait for anyone who might want to take advantage of the obvious situation.
It’s way better to wait in a well-lit area, maybe inside a café or close to a group of people. If you’re at home, chill there until your driver arrives.
2. Double-Check Your Ride Details
Before you get into the cab that arrives, make sure that you check the details of your ride carefully. Look at the driver’s name, their picture, and the car’s make and model. You also want to check the license plate number.
Hold on for a second and take a moment to confirm that everything matches what you see in the app. If something doesn’t look right (maybe the car is the wrong color or the driver’s not who you expected), don’t hesitate to cancel the ride. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
3. Ask the Driver for Your Name
Before you jump in, it’s a good idea to ask the driver to confirm your name. Something like, “Hi, can you tell me who you’re here to pick up?” It might feel a little awkward, but it’s a smart move. A legit driver won’t mind confirming this info. If they hesitate or seem confused, that’s a red flag, and you should think twice about getting in.
4. Share Your Trip with Someone You Trust
Most rideshare apps let you share your trip details with a friend or family member. Use this feature always, without fail. Just tap a button, and your friend can see where you are and when you’re expected to arrive. This is usually super helpful, especially if you’re traveling alone.
5. Keep Your Seatbelt on
This might sound basic, but always wear your seatbelt. Seriously, it’s one of the simplest things you can do to keep yourself safe in case of an accident. Whether you’re in the front seat or the back, buckle up. It’s a must.
6. Sit in the Back Seat
When you get into the car, aim for the back seat. Sitting there gives you more personal space and makes it easier to exit quickly if needed.
You can chat with the driver, but remember to keep things professional. You have to keep things professional and platonic. They don’t need to know too much about your personal life or even your routine.