Infographic : Rideshare Safety Tips for Passengers
Top Risks When Using Rideshare Services
Car Accidents
Ridesharing has increased the number of motor vehicle fatalities and fatal accidents by 2-3%.
In 2010 (before Uber), the total number of traffic fatalities was 32,885 — the lowest recorded in over 60 years.
However, in 2016, the total number of traffic fatalities in the U.S. increased by 4,576.
Uber drivers are often traveling in unfamiliar areas while relying on GPS navigation tools.
As Uber grows more popular, the number of drivers on the road increases.
More drivers on the road means more congested roadways, which may lead to more vehicle collisions.
Dangerous
Passengers are at risk of facing robbery, abduction, assault, and more.
Female passengers are especially threatened with the risk of experiencing sexual assault from an Uber driver.
According to a CNN investigation, 103 Uber drivers were accused of sexual abuse or assault.
Predators Impersonating Uber Drivers
Some predators will even go as far as to impersonate Uber drivers in order to gain access to their victims.
Samantha Josephson, a student at the University of South Carolina, got into a car she mistook for her Uber. Hours later, she was found murdered.
Nicolas Morales, a 44 year-old man posing as an Uber Driver, was accused of raping or assaulting 8 women in Los Angeles, California.
Safety Tips for Passengers
- Wait for your Uber in a safe, well-lit area.
- Use the Uber app to verify both the driver and the car’s license plate before you step in.
- Always make sure the driver knows who you are and what your name is.
- Don’t ride alone. If you can, ride with a friend.
- Let your friends know where you are by sharing your location.
- Inform the driver that the trip is being tracked.
- Sit in the back seat. Should a dangerous situation occur, sitting in the backseat creates space between you and the driver, and provides two possible exits.
- To reduce the risk of car accidents, make sure your Uber driver isn’t driving distracted.
- Do not share any personal information.
