Easy safety tips for Uber and Lyft

Uber and Lyft can be a great resource, but it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. Below are some easy safety tips we suggest you follow when using either service.

• Stay inside until your driver arrives, especially if you are alone.
• Uber and Lyft show you the drivers name, vehicle model and color and license plate number. Check to make sure everything looks correct as you approach the vehicle.
• Ask who your driver is picking up before you get into the car. Don’t say, “Are you here to pick up Jane?” Rather, say “Who are you here to pick up?”
• Follow your intuition. If something feels off, don’t get into the vehicle, or call 9-1-1 if you are already in the vehicle.
• Ride in the backseat whenever possible. Not only does ensure you can safely exit on either side of the vehicle to avoid traffic, but it gives you and your driver some personal space.
• Always wear a seatbelt
• Uber allows you to share your trip status with friends and family. Simply press “Share trip status” in the app, and the contacts you select will receive a text or push notification that tracks your trip and ETA. Even if you don’t use this feature, you should let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to get there.
• Uber also has a Safety Toolkit, which can be accessed by tapping the shield icon in the app. This is where riders can report safety issues, to which Uber's 24/7 response team will follow up.
•  Lyft has a critical response team that is always available. If you believe your safety is threatened, call 9-1-1 first, then report the problem to Lyft.
• Monitor your ride on your own GPS to make sure your driver is headed in the right direction, especially if you are somewhere you are unfamiliar with.
• Download the Bearcat Guardian App. You can use the safety timer so a friend or family member can watch you on your ride with GPS.
• Use NightRide for a safe and free ride within a one mile radius of campus.