WASHINGTON, D.C. – For people who use ride sharing apps like Uber, safety is always a concern.
Police in Prince George’s County said an Uber driver was arrested for kidnapping and assaulting an intoxicated female passenger last week.
So what can riders do to assure their safety when using a ride sharing app? Uber has worked with law enforcement to come up with a list.
First, the rides haring app recommends requesting a ride indoors and waiting inside until the driver is nearby.
Next, riders should ask the driver’s name when opening the car door and check the name, photo and license plate information against what is displayed in the app. Uber rides can only be booked through the Uber app.
Uber also recommends that riders sit in the back seat of the car, especially if alone, which allows passengers the ability to exit either side of the vehicle once it is stopped.
Also, let others know about the Uber trip. Using the app, passengers can click “send status” and share trip information with friends and family. This feature will send the driver’s information and allow others to track the ride in real-time.
Also trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem right, don’t get into the car. If a rider feels in danger at any time they’re encouraged to call 911.
Riders also should protect their personal information. There is never a need to share contact information with the driver; that information is shared in the app and is kept private by the app when passengers and drivers are communicating with their smart phones.
