5 Tips for Staying Safe as a Rideshare Passenger

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are common throughout New York, offering a convenient transportation option for residents. While most rides conclude without incident, it’s not unheard of for accidents or assaults to occur.

Uber’s most recent safety report reveals 101 motor vehicle deaths between 2019 and 2020, with riders making up 19 of these fatalities. It also reports 20 assault-related deaths, 75% of whom were riders, and 528 cases of non-consensual touching during rides in 2020.

If you use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, remain vigilant and take the following precautions to protect your safety. If you’re hurt in a rideshare incident, our Syracuse car accident lawyers at Catalano Law can help you report the accident and seek fair compensation.

1. Verify the Driver and the Vehicle

Before getting into the car, make sure the driver’s name, photo, and vehicle details on your app match the actual vehicle and driver. Check the license plate, car model, and color to ensure it aligns with the information on your app.

2. Ask for Your Own Name

Upon entering the vehicle, ask the driver who they are picking up. A legitimate driver will know your name from the ride request. They should be able to state your first and last name and show you the ride request on their phone. This provides an additional layer of security, confirming that you are the intended passenger for that specific ride.

3. Buckle Up in the Back

Always wear your seatbelt, even when sitting in the backseat. This crucial safety measure protects you in case of sudden stops, accidents, or other unforeseen events. Securely fastening your belt before the ride begins can reduce the risk of injury or being thrown from the vehicle.

According to Uber, unbuckled rider fatalities accounted for 26% of occupant deaths in 2020.

4. Don’t Distract the Driver

While it’s okay to have a conversation with your driver, avoid engaging in discussions that could divert their attention from the road. Excessive noise or disruptive behavior can lead to dangerous situations. Respect the driver’s focus by allowing them to concentrate on driving to ensure a safe journey for everyone involved.

5. Trust Your Gut

If something feels off during your ride, trust your instincts. You may feel unsafe for several reasons, including:

Unusual route choices by the driver
Erratic or unsafe driving behavior
Inappropriate or uncomfortable conversation or touching
Refusal by the driver to follow your directions or requests
Presence of another unexplained passenger in the vehicle
Unauthorized pickups, stops, or payment requests not made through the app

In these situations, you can take action. For example, you might share your location with friends and family through the app, ensuring someone knows where you are. You may also ask to end the ride in a safe area, like a well-lit shopping center, and report any concerns to the rideshare company. If you fear for your immediate safety, contact police for emergency help.

Reporting Suspicious Incidents or Safety Concerns

When reporting a concerning or unsafe experience with a rideshare service, taking the right steps can ensure your feedback is heard and acted upon effectively. In a collision, you can work with a rideshare attorney from Catalano Law to report it and seek compensation from the rideshare company. Follow these steps:

Contact the Rideshare Company: Immediately use the app to report the incident. Most rideshare companies have a reporting feature or a safety toolkit within their app designed for quick and easy reporting.

Detail the Incident: Provide a clear, detailed account of what happened. Include the date, time, driver’s name, and other relevant details. The more specific you are, the better the company can address the issue.

Follow Up: Follow up with an email or call to ensure your report is taken seriously and to inquire about any steps being taken. For vehicle collisions, allow your attorney to handle all communication and negotiations with the rideshare company regarding your claim.

After a Rideshare Accident, Contact Catalano Law

Being involved in a rideshare accident can leave you with serious injuries and costly medical bills. Our attorneys at Catalano Law have experience negotiating with these companies and can fight to get you maximum compensation based on their insurance policy limits.