Ridesharing Safety

More and more people are using ridesharing services each year. We know this is especially true for university- and college-age adults. Whether students use ridesharing frequently or just to take occasional trips, it’s important to practice safe behaviors every time, including always checking the license plate, make, and model of the vehicle, and the driver’s identity before getting into a car.

Safety Tips

Here are a few actions you can take to help you stay safe while ridesharing.

1. Plan ahead. Before you request a ride, think about where you’re headed and review the safety features in the app so you know how to use them.
2. Request your ride inside. Avoid spending unnecessary time outside alone with your phone in your hand. Instead, wait indoors until the app shows your driver has arrived.
3. Check your ride. Before you get in the car, check that the driver, car, and license plate all match what’s listed in the app. Uber rides can only be requested through the app, so never get in a car with a driver who claims to be with Uber and offers a ride.
4. Be a backseat rider. If you’re riding alone, sit in the backseat. This ensures you can safely exit on either side of the vehicle to avoid moving traffic, and it gives you and your driver some personal space.
5. Buckle up. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that seatbelt use is the most effective way to save lives and reduce injuries related to car accidents.
6. Share your trip details with a friend. While en route, tap “Share status” in the Uber app to share information about your driver, car, and location with a friend or family member, regardless of whether they have an Uber account. They can track your trip in real time and verify you’ve arrived safely.
7. Protect your personal information. There’s no need to share your phone number or other contact information with your driver. If a rider and driver need to contact each other, the Uber app automatically anonymizes both phone numbers to protect everyone’s privacy.
8. Follow your intuition. Trust your instincts and use your best judgment when riding. And if you ever feel you’re in an emergency situation, call 911 immediately.
9. Be kind and respectful. Please respect your driver and his or her car.
10. Give feedback on your trip. Your feedback helps improve the ridesharing experience for everyone. Uber’s 24/7 global support team reviews feedback and will follow up with appropriate action on any reports of conduct that violate its community guidelines.