Uber has become a convenient way to travel. But there are safety concerns. From accident-related injuries to assaults by drivers, the reasons to protect yourself are many. The following Uber safety tips can help reduce the odds of getting into trouble and/or requiring the help of an accident attorney later.
Before you begin your ride:
Request a Ride While Still Indoors
By holding your phone, entering your information into the app, and waiting for your ride outdoors, you increase your safety risks. Instead, summon your ride while inside. Stay where you are until the app indicates your driver has arrived at your location.
Make Sure It’s the Right Car
Check the make, model, and license plate, as well as the driver photo. These should all match what is shown in the app. Being diligent here will mean you get into the right car and not into a situation you didn’t anticipate.
Make Sure the Driver Confirms Who You Are
Before you step in the car, ask the driver to confirm your name. The driver will see your name in the app, just as you can see theirs. You can ask who they’re picking up and to confirm your destination. The driver may also ask you to confirm their name, to ensure you’re where you expect to be.
Sit in the Back Seat
If you’re riding alone, sit on the rear passenger side. Do not let the driver convince you into sitting in the front seat. And if you sit directly behind them, there’s limited visibility as to what they may be doing. Besides, drivers, like everyone else, need their personal space.
Don’t accept the ride if there are any red flags. The driver should be in the type of car shown in the app. If not, the driver seems intoxicated, or is traveling with a friend or someone else, you should not get in. Always get in and out of the car in a safe, well-lit place.
During the course of your ride:
Get Out If Necessary
You might be in the car and spot something awry. Don’t be afraid to end your ride early. Claiming a friend has texted you in an emergency may be effective. You can even add a stop along the route you are on, using the Uber app.
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 or use the app’s emergency button.
Wear Your Seat Belt
Seat belts are proven to reduce injuries and save lives, as any experienced car accident attorney will tell you. They are just as effective in an Uber vehicle as any car.
Share Your Trip Status
The Uber app allows you to share your trip status while en route. It includes your driver’s name and photo, as well as the car’s license plate number and location. Friends and family members can track your trip via text or push notification.
Provide Your Feedback
Uber keeps track of passenger safety. You can rate your trip in the app and even report a safety issue directly to the company. Its response team is available 24/7. Just tap the shield icon on the app’s Safety Toolkit.
In an Uber Accident? Contact Our Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney
At the Law Offices of Jacob Emrani, our Uber accident attorney is familiar with the rideshare company’s policies and accident insurance coverage. If you’ve been injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or bicyclist, call Jacob today at 888-912-7115. You can also request a free case consultation via our online form.