Uber Safety Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore

When you’re out for a night, it often seems like there’s no need to worry about how you’re going to get home.

Thanks to ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, you can get where you’re going without having needing to depend on a friend or worrying about parking.

However, it’s important to remember that just because these services are convenient, it doesn’t mean they’re without risk.

So, if you’re one of those people who find getting into a car with a stranger nerve-wracking — you’re not being paranoid.

Similarly, if you’re a driver, it’s totally normal to feel a little nervous when someone new gets into your car.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Below are over 15 helpful tips for both passengers and drivers that will help keep you safe when using Uber, Lyft, or a taxi!

Uber Safety Tips For Passengers

1. Wait for your ride in a public place

Preferably inside a building.

This will help you feel safer while you’re waiting for your ride.

If you really must wait outside, try to find a well-lit area with plenty of people around.

2. Check out your ride

Always check out the ride you’re getting into — and we don’t mean admire it.

Instead, verify:

• the license plate
• the vehicle make & model
• that the driver’s face matches what’s on the app

Even if you’re just taking a regular taxi, it’s still a good idea to pay attention to these details.

Don’t be afraid of what your driver might think if they see you.

In fact, if they have any bad intentions, seeing you check the license plate will act as a deterrent because they’ll be worried about getting caught.

What to do with your ride details:

Once you’ve checked out the license plate and details of the vehicle you’re about to get into, do these 3 things:

1. Verify that it matches the details on the app.
   Ensure that every letter and number matches up. Call it out if you need to. Be sure you don’t confuse something like L1243 for L1234.
   
   
2. Tell your family & friends.
   Send the details of your ride and driver to at least 1 person.
   
   
3. Act like a celebrity.
   And here’s what we mean by this — act like there are people eagerly waiting for you to show up at whatever location you’re going to.
   
   If possible, make a real (or fake) call in your ride, clearly describing the color, model, and license plate of the car you’re in.
   
   As a bonus, say how soon you expect to be at your location. This shows your driver that someone is aware of where you are and expects you to show up at any minute.

4. Confirm your name

Before getting into the vehicle, confirm your name with the driver.

Uber suggests asking “Who are you here to pick up?”

If they can’t tell you your name, that’s a big red flag!

5. Check the backseat before getting in

Before you get into the car, take a quick look in the backseat to ensure no one is hiding there.

This may seem like an unnecessary precaution, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

6. Sit in the backseat

This is probably the most important Uber safety tip on this list.

By sitting in the backseat, you’re putting some distance between you and your driver, which can help if things go south.

If they try anything, it will be much harder for them to reach you or grab you if you’re behind them.

This uber safety tip is crucial if you’re riding alone.

7. Don’t overshare

It’s completely fine to have a polite chat with your driver, but try to keep the conversation light and avoid sharing too much personal information.

For example, don’t tell your driver if you live alone or how much money you make.

If they ask nosy questions that make you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to politely say “I’d rather not say”.

8. Pay attention to red flags

If your driver is acting strange, it’s probably best to get out of the car ASAP.

Some things to look out for include:

• erractic driving
• saying or doing things that make you feel uncomfortable
• refusing to follow the GPS directions
• trying to change the destination without asking you first

If you see any of these red flags, it’s probably best to get out of the situation, fast.

9. Keep your phone close

Number 9 on our list of Uber safety tips is pretty straightforward.

If you can, keep your phone in your hand or close by so you can call for help if needed.

This tip is simple but shouldn’t be underestimated.

10. Be aware of your surroundings

This uber safety tip applies both when you’re getting into and exiting the car.

When you’re getting into the car, take a quick look around and ensure there’s no one following you or acting suspiciously.

And when you’re exiting the car, be sure to watch where you’re going and be aware of your surroundings.

This will help you avoid any potential danger.

11. Don’t wear both headphones

Tip number 11 is directly related to our last one.

As part of being aware of your surroundings, it’s important to be able to hear what’s going on around you.

So, avoid wearing both headphones while you’re in the car.

This will help you stay alert and be able to react quickly if something happens.

12. Be assertive, but polite

If you don’t feel comfortable with something — say it. Don’t be afraid to say that you want to stop and get out of the vehicle.

At the same time, it’s important to be polite.

Remember that this isn’t your car, so there’s no need to get fussy about little things like the music the driver chooses to play.

As you’ll see in this video, this can cause unnecessary conflict between you and your driver and will only make your ride miserable.

Similarly, if your driver feels uncomfortable with something you’re doing, listen to them and stop.

The respect must be mutual.

13. Buckle up

This should go without saying, but always buckle up.

It’s the law in most countries, and it’s there for a reason. In the event of an accident, you’re much less likely to be injured if you’re properly restrained.

Besides, some drivers are reckless, so you should always do what you can to protect yourself.

14. Pay attention to the route

This uber safety tip is vital if you’re not familiar with the area.

Pay attention to the route your driver is taking and make sure it’s the route you want to go.

Look out for landmarks and signs, and monitor whether the area is becoming isolated.

You can also use the GPS on your own phone to keep track of your location.

If you notice your driver has taken a different route, don’t hesitate to speak up and ask why.

15. Trust your instincts

When something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

If you have a bad feeling about your driver or the ride, don’t hesitate to get out of the car or call for help.

16. Invest in Self-Defense

Investing time or money in learning a few self-defense tricks will never be a waste.

You can also invest in some pepper spray (as long as it’s legal in your location). It’s one of those things you hope you never have to use but just might save your life.

Uber Safety Tips For Drivers

1. Confirm your name

If you’ve heard of the ‘Say My Name‘ scam, you’ll understand why this tip is so important.

A lot of pressure is put on drivers to prove themselves safe and trustworthy, even more than the passengers.

Sadly, some people try to take advantage of that.

That’s why Uber suggests asking your passenger to confirm your name before getting into the vehicle.

This will give you the peace of mind that you’re picking up the right person.

2. Make your passenger feel comfortable

This may seem counterintuitive for your own safety, but you should always try to make your passenger feel safe and comfortable.

A passenger who feels uncomfortable or threatened is more likely to behave unpredictably and defensively, which can put you in danger.

To make your passenger feel comfortable, avoid:

• changing the route without informing them first
• asking too many personal questions
• driving too quickly
• playing your music too loudly

3. Be aware of your surroundings

You should always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.

This will help you spot any potential danger and react quickly if necessary.

Use the rearview mirror to keep an eye on what’s going on in the backseat of your car, so you aren’t caught off guard.

4. Trust your gut

If you ever get a bad feeling about a passenger, trust your gut and end the ride. No amount of money is worth putting yourself in danger.

So, if someone makes you feel uncomfortable or gives you a weird vibe, don’t hesitate to cancel the ride.

How To Stay Safe In An Uber – The Bottom Line

The most important Uber safety tip for both passengers and drivers is to trust your gut and follow your instincts.

If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

So, be sure to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you ever find yourself in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to take action.

Your safety is always most important.

Stay safe out there!