5 Ways to Stay Safe Using Rideshare Apps
Michael Babboni
Car Accidents
Rideshare apps are becoming increasingly popular as a more affordable and convenient way to get around compared to taxis and other forms of public transportation. However, everything is good until it isn't. If you are going to use rideshare apps, you need to know how to keep yourself safe.Pay Attention
You need to make sure you know who you are dealing with when choosing to use rideshare apps. To do this, slow down and pay attention to what is going on. Make sure you are aware of all the important details regarding your ride. You can find this information in the app at the top of the screen in many cases.
You also need to exercise good judgment. Don't get into the car and then cancel the ride. You should always also be aware of your surroundings. If you ever feel unsafe or something doesn't feel right about the situation, don't hesitate to call for help.
Another part of paying attention is making sure you get into the right car. Does the car waiting for you match the car make and model listed in the app? Check the license plate, make sure it matches up, and then compare the driver to the driver's photo and information in the app.
Once you have done all this, have the driver confirm your name and his. This way, you aren't giving your name out first, and you can confirm his name with the information in your app.
Safety First
Safety is always a priority whether you are in your own car or someone else's. When using these rideshare services, sit in the backseat and maintain a comfortable distance from the driver. As always, wear your seatbelt.
It is also a good idea to share some details with a friend or family member as well before the trip, during, and after. This way, someone else is aware of where you are and what you are doing and can reach out for help if the communication abruptly stops.
The app will also have your trip status in most cases, which can be shared with a loved one. This way, they will know exactly where you are during the trip, the driver's information, and your ETA.
Call 911 with the App
Did you know that you can contact 911 with the rideshare app? If you feel that you are in a dangerous situation, you can call for emergency services using the emergency button found in the app. Some rideshare services have other in-app safety features you can take advantage of, so you can always reach out for help in an unsafe situation.
Avoid Solo Riding
If you feel unwell or are incapacitated or inebriated, it is safer to ride with someone you know. You should avoid using rideshare apps alone until you are feeling better. You also need to make sure you can contact 911 yourself in an emergency if you are alone.
Keep Contact Within the App
If you need to contact your driver or communicate with them in any way, make sure to only do so in the rideshare app. When you use the app, you can maintain a certain degree of anonymity between yourself and the driver. You will not receive strange texts or calls following the ride, and you both can maintain your privacy.
As you can see, there are many ways to stay safe while using rideshare services. Make sure someone knows where you are at all times and practice caution while riding, which means always wearing your seatbelt.
Even with the best precautions, accidents do still happen, unfortunately. If you were involved in an accident while using a rideshare service, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today who can walk you through what can often prove to be a complicated process.