The development of ride-share systems has made travel all the more convenient in Colorado and throughout the country. When you have plans to get together with friends, it’s nice to know that you don’t have to worry about navigating traffic or finding a parking spot. You can use a mobile app to order a ride from Uber or another transportation company.
You can take care of everything through the mobile app, including providing information as to where your driver should pick you up. You can arrange payment for the ride and also add a gratuity for the driver, which helps you avoid having to make in-person financial transactions. Safety is, of course, a top concern if you use Uber or another ride-sharing service.
Crimes and collisions can occur
When you depend on a stranger for transportation, you can reasonably expect that the Uber company or whatever company you’re using has taken steps to vet their drivers and help ensure your safety. Sadly, data shows that there have, indeed, been collisions involving Uber drivers and also crimes committed against passengers.
The more you know ahead of time about personal safety regarding ride-sharing services, the better off you’ll be. If something doesn’t feel right to you, don’t get into the vehicle that has arrived to pick you up.
Keep these 5 safety tips in mind
When you schedule an Uber ride, keeping the tips included in the following list may help improve passenger safety:
- Wait in a well-lit, preferably well-populated location for your ride.
- Make sure the driver knows your name and destination before you enter the vehicle.
- Compare the make, model and license plate number of the car that has arrived with the information provided in your mobile app.
- Avoid riding alone, but if you must, never sit in the front seat.
- Make a phone call and let the driver hear you telling someone that you are taking an Uber ride.
These helpful tips can improve travel safety when you’re using a ride-sharing service. If a driver hears you telling another person that you’re in an Uber vehicle, he or she may be less likely to commit a crime. It’s also best to pay close attention to the driver’s behavior at the wheel. If he or she starts texting, for instance, state that you expect him or her to obey traffic laws.
There is strength in numbers
Traveling by Uber with a group of friends is safer than traveling alone. You’ll want to avoid giving personal information to the driver. Also, trust your instincts. If something is making you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, do not get into the vehicle. If you’re already on the road, ask the driver to pull into the nearest well-lit, populated location, exit the vehicle and go inside the establishment.
If a collision occurs and you or any of your friends suffer personal injury, obtaining medical attention is always the first priority. In the days and weeks that follow a crash, it’s important to monitor your condition and also to build a strong support network to help with physical and emotional recovery, as well as any legal issues associated with the incident.
