Companies like Uber, Lyft, and others have changed the game when it comes to the gig economy, the taxi industry, and, of course, just getting around in general. For most of us passengers, these ridesharing companies offer an increase in convenience, especially in California where public transport is not entirely dependable.
Besides the convenience issue, rideshare companies also offer us all a safe alternative to driving while under the influence. When all you need is an app, there’s no excuse to be made for having to drive drunk. And for anyone out feeling unsafe or stranded, a ride home is easy to find.
The only question becomes, how safe are the rideshares themselves? Who are you really getting into the car with, and what assurances do you have for your safety? Before anyone heard of Lyft, the idea of hitchhiking, or getting in a stranger’s car, was already widely regarded as an extremely risky thing to do.
We have all heard about the terrifying murder of Samantha Josephson, known as the “fake Uber” case. The young woman got into a car, imagining it was her ride, but the man behind the wheel was not her driver. Her body was later found and the man was convicted for her murder.
While this tragedy is obviously the worst-case scenario when it comes to rideshare use, it does raise a good point about safety. Let’s look at some tips for staying secure when you hail a rideshare car.
The first thing people look for, when they are alerted about their driver arriving, is to take a look at the license plate. Make sure to read the entire number, you don’t want to be mistaken because of two cars with similar plates. Check the photo and the name of your driver. Ask them their name and do not be the first person who mentions it. This way they can not pretend to be the person you are looking for. Also, make sure no one else is in the car if you have not selected a “pool” or “group” option for your ride.
Take a screenshot of your order confirmation, route, and destination. Send it to someone you trust or someone expecting you. It’s a good idea to share your estimated arrival time too, so someone will be aware if you are late or missing.
Even though a lot of us call a car after we have had some drinks, it is a good idea to pay as much attention as possible to your ride. After you are safely in the right car, keep watch over the route on your rideshare or maps app. If you notice any deviation, don’t be afraid to ask what is happening. And make sure you get a sensible answer that leaves you feeling confident in your safety.
Don’t hesitate to call the police if you feel in danger. If you look back after the fact and feel you were not treated properly, reach out to the authorities and an attorney experienced in rideshare cases.
blogs
Facts About Ridesharing Accidents
Even in cities that are considered to be “car cultures,” rideshare services are quickly becoming a solid alternative for those who don’t want to abandon their car after a night out, or don’t want to take public transportation. For some, Uber and Lyft, etc are their best bet for timely arrival to work or a […]
Five Slip and Fall Facts
The more we have to go out into the world, the more dangers we’ll face. The key is not to be worried about it, but to be prepared and act safely. It also helps to know what to do and who to contact in the case of suffering a slip and fall injury yourself. Avoiding […]
Five Products for Increased Bicycle Safety
Bicycle accidents are unfortunately increasingly common in both California and Arizona, causing many to seek damages to compensate for their losses. Defensive driving and being aware of your surroundings are the best tools for safety, as is making sure your bicycle is properly maintained, making sure to wear a helmet, and obeying all street laws […]
Pedestrian Safety in Cold Weather
When it’s cold outside, people drive worse than they did before. If you’re a pedestrian, you need to take extra precautions during the cold weather and, if you’re driving, you need to keep an extra eye out for pedestrians who are even harder to see, especially if snow is lowering your visibility. Safety is always […]
Purchase or Replace a Lemon Car? Californian Lemon laws Relating to the Decisions
If your vehicle meets the Californian lemon law requirements, you have the right to ask for a car replacement or monetary compensation from the manufacturer. For financial compensation, the manufacturer is required to restore the buyer to their original position. However, if you prefer a car replacement, the manufacturer compensates you with a similar vehicle. […]
Five Helpful Facts and Tips About Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are specialist machines. They require their own licenses, training and a specific discipline for driving safely. Learning to drive defensively on a motorcycle can be more difficult than doing so in an automobile. Each year, there are 2,907 total motorcycle crashes, 2,274 of which result in injuries and 156 of which result in some […]
Scooter Safety
Since the program began in 2018, when the city of Los Angeles legalized scooters and made a plan to distribute more, they have been a ubiquitous addition to the city streets. Touted as a boon to lower-income people who would have difficulty purchasing and maintaining cars, the scooters were a popular initiative. They were approved […]
Bicycle Safety Tips
Bicycling might be the true essence of freedom in transportation. No dependence on anyone to get around except yourself, no motor to make you drive out of control, and you can park your bike just about anywhere. Still, safety while riding a bicycle is just as important as with any other mode of transportation, especially […]
Finding the Right Mechanic
In a state like California, which is full of drivers, it is interesting that finding a trustworthy mechanic is such a difficult task. There are many inscrutable technicians out. It is not uncommon to be informed, months after the supposed installment, that your “brand new brakes” have actually never been changed. And, surprisingly, even in […]
Stay Safe in Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
In the history of cars, hybrids and plug-in electric vehicles are still essentially brand-new. With new technology comes a new way to look at transportation. This includes an eye toward safety – anything new in automobiles is going to require a new understanding of how they work, what the dangers are, and how to maintain […]
contact form
