If you are traveling to another country and don’t think about renting a vehicle, you may have ridesharing in mind. Companies like Uber and Lyft are the major ones in ridesharing. This option is more like using a taxi. However, you must confirm your safety. Rideshares are safe, convenient to get around, and reduce accidents related to drunk driving. You will need a mobile app to connect with the driver who will drive you to your destination at a fee. There have been stories of compromised customer safety in ridesharing and road accidents. However, it is crucial as the passenger to ensure you will be safe.
The following are things you should do to ensure your safety.
Confirm the Driver
Before setting your foot inside the vehicle, you should inspect the driver to know they are the right one. Even though no other driver knows you are taking the ride, it is crucial to double-check because fraudulent drivers appear. So, check the app and make sure it is the right driver. Look at their license plate number and compare it with the one on the app.
Review their Rating
Rideshare drivers use apps to get ratings. Therefore, check online reviews on the app to know how they operate. The reviews will give you a glimpse into what to expect. They contain other passengers’ opinions about the driver and their level of satisfaction. In case you are not comfortable with the driver because of the reviews, you are free to cancel the ride and order another one. After getting the ride, review the driver so you can help another person.
Wear Your Seat Belt
Rideshare accidents are common, some resulting in death. Therefore, it is crucial to be safe by wearing a seatbelt the whole journey. Wearing a safety belt reduces the risk of death or getting injuries in a car accident. However, if the mishap happens, ensure you will be safe and compensated by getting rideshare accident lawyer services. The lawyer will also protect you if you have been assaulted during the ride.
Avoid Distracting the Driver
If you or the driver are the social types, you may want to know each other. However, ensure the driver is not distracted. Minimize talking and playing loud music or games when on the ride. If you are in a group, avoid distractions or being loud.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Drunk driving contributes to a large percentage of road accidents. Some of these accidents are fatal and result in death. Therefore, don’t drive if you know you are drunk. Instead, call the rideshare. On the same, ensure the driver taking you to your destination is sober. This is crucial to avoid having an accident. There are many risks involved in drunk driving. So, drinking and driving are not worth it. Don’t drive or let another person drive when drunk. Order another ride if the driver who comes to pick you up is drunk.
Let Someone Know Your Plans
It is advisable to inform other people about your plans and where you plan to go before riding in the car. Apps like Lyft and Uber have an option of sharing your location, license plate number, and photo of the driver. Send these details to your friends or family. They will know what to do, where to start looking for you, and who to go to when something goes wrong. If your app does not support this, take a picture of the car and send it to a friend or family member.
Travel With Others
Traveling in a group can be a good way of increasing your safety. Therefore, if possible, travel with some friends. It will be easier to be safe and reduce the chances of danger when riding several people in the car.
Map the Route
Even if the driver has the route of your destination on their phone, it will be safer if you keep yours too. Look out for any change in direction, and don’t be afraid to speak up if the driver shifts. If you don’t feel comfortable, you can stop the ride. Take quick action by calling 911 if you are afraid you are being taken somewhere else.
Takeaways!
It is essential to know you will be safe when ridesharing. There are risks involved when drivers behave in an unethical way or cause an accident. Therefore, ensure you confirm the driver and take pictures of the car and the driver before hopping on the ride. Your safety matters a lot, and remember there is safety in number. So, invite your friends to ride with you or let other people close to you know your whereabouts.
These are all good tips. I do not like driving in a foreign country , so it would definitely be something I would consider.