How Can I Ensure Safety in a Rideshare?

December 3, 2024

Protect Yourself: Key Safety Practices for Rideshare Riders

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are quick, affordable, and convenient, but like any form of transportation, they come with risks. Whether you're a passenger or a driver, ensuring your safety should be a top priority. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to keep yourself safe in a rideshare, so you can enjoy your ride with peace of mind.

1. Double-Check Your Ride Details

Verify the Car and Driver: 

Before getting into the car, always check that the car model, color, and license plate match the details in the app. It’s easy to get distracted, but this quick check ensures that you’re entering the correct vehicle. 

Confirm the Driver’s Identity: 

Take a moment to confirm that the driver’s name and photo match what you see on your screen. If anything seems off, don’t hesitate to reach out to the rideshare company or cancel the ride. Your safety comes first. 

Confirm Your Destination: 

It’s always a good idea to confirm your destination with the driver once you're inside. This helps ensure you're both on the same page about where you’re headed. 

2. Share Your Trip Details

Use the “Share Your Trip” Feature: 

Both Uber and Lyft offer a safety feature that lets you share your ride details with a friend or family member. You can share your driver’s name, photo, car details, and even your real-time location. This provides an extra layer of safety, ensuring that someone knows where you are throughout your journey. 

Let Someone Know Your Plans: 

Always tell a trusted friend or family member when you’re headed out. Share your estimated arrival time and the route you’ll be taking. If anything goes wrong, they’ll know where to start looking. 

3. Sit in the Back Seat for Extra Safety

Why the Back Seat? 

While it might seem like sitting in the front is more convenient, the back seat is actually safer. Not only does it give you more personal space, but it also provides a better escape route if you need it. Sitting in the back also keeps you at a safer distance from the driver in case of an emergency. 


Secure Your Belongings: 

Make sure your belongings are within arm’s reach and secured in the back seat. This helps reduce the chances of losing valuables or making the situation uncomfortable. 

Why the Back Seat? 

While it might seem like sitting in the front is more convenient, the back seat is actually safer. Not only does it give you more personal space, but it also provides a better escape route if you need it. Sitting in the back also keeps you at a safer distance from the driver in case of an emergency. 


Secure Your Belongings: 

Make sure your belongings are within arm’s reach and secured in the back seat. This helps reduce the chances of losing valuables or making the situation uncomfortable. 

4. Trust Your Instincts—If Something Feels Off, Act

Listen to Your Gut: 

If you ever feel uncomfortable or uneasy during the ride, trust your instincts. Whether it’s the driver’s behavior, the route, or something else, your safety should always come first. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to ask to be let out in a safe place, contact emergency services, or cancel the ride. 


Stay Alert: 

While it’s tempting to zone out, especially after a long day, stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Being conscious of where you are and what’s happening in the car can help you react quickly if needed. 

5. Use the Safety Features in the App

Report Issues Immediately: 

If you have any concerns during the ride, don’t hesitate to report them via the app. Both Uber and Lyft allow you to flag issues such as unsafe behavior or vehicle problems. These reports help rideshare companies improve safety and address any problems promptly. 

Know How to Contact Help: 

Both apps have built-in safety toolkits, allowing you to contact emergency services or the rideshare company with just a tap. Familiarize yourself with these features so that if something goes wrong, you’ll know exactly what to do. 

6. Don’t Get Distracted

Stay Focused on the Ride: 

It’s easy to get caught up in a conversation or on your phone, but distractions can prevent you from noticing warning signs or potential threats. Try to stay engaged with your environment during the ride, even if you're just enjoying the view or checking your messages. 

Stay Focused on the Ride: 

It’s easy to get caught up in a conversation or on your phone, but distractions can prevent you from noticing warning signs or potential threats. Try to stay engaged with your environment during the ride, even if you're just enjoying the view or checking your messages. 

7. Choose Your Driver Carefully

Look at Ratings and Reviews: 

Before accepting a ride, take a look at the driver’s ratings and reviews. This can help you feel more confident in your choice and avoid drivers with poor ratings. If you’re not comfortable with the driver, don’t hesitate to cancel and request a new ride. 

Understand the Vetting Process: 

Rideshare companies do background checks on drivers, but you should always be informed about how your driver has been vetted. Knowing the process helps you understand that safety measures are in place, though it’s always smart to verify. 

8. Be Aware of Your Surroundings Before and After the Ride

Safety Starts Before the Ride: 

When waiting for your ride, choose a well-lit, public area. Avoid isolated spots or areas where you feel unsafe. Similarly, when your ride ends, don’t rush—ensure the area is safe before getting out of the car. 


Verify the Car: 

Before getting into the car, check that the vehicle matches the details in your app. Don’t get into a car if something feels wrong, even if the car looks like the one from your ride. 

Rideshare services offer a convenient way to travel, but safety should always be your top priority. By verifying ride details, sharing trip information, trusting your instincts, and using in-app safety features, you can greatly reduce the risk of any negative experiences. Remember, staying alert and prepared can make all the difference in ensuring your rideshare experience is safe and enjoyable. 



Stay safe on your rideshare journeys! If you’ve had any safety concerns or need assistance,

don’t hesitate to contact us for support. 

Share this blog with your friends and family to help them stay informed about how to stay safe while using rideshare services.