To ensure a safe Uber ride for female passengers, it is important to verify driver and vehicle details, share trip information with trusted contacts, sit in the backseat, remain vigilant and trust instincts, utilize in-app emergency features, travel during high-demand hours, and consider using additional safety tools like family tracking apps, GPS tracker devices, and Apple Watch.
Ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft, Juno, Via, Wingz, and many more are in great demand due to the busy lifestyle and congested road conditions in big cities like New York, LA, Austin, and more. Taxi service provides convenience and accessibility to passengers who don’t want to get stuck in their car trying to look out for a parking spot for their vehicle.
From teens to adults and business executives to tourists, taxis are used by everyone as they provide a quick and accessible way to transportation at a reasonable price.
However, we have seen in news reports that these ride-sharing services come short regarding women’s safety, which is a concern for all of us. A quick Google search or goog through the CNN website will find several cases where a sole woman faced harassment from Uber or other taxi drivers fearing for their safety. There are also reports of several sexual harassment reports in the US where female passengers have accused Uber drivers of sexually assaulting or abusing them.
This article provides essential Uber safety tips for female passengers. By following these guidelines and utilizing available features, women can empower themselves to have a safe and worry-free journey.
Verify Driver and Vehicle Details
Parmjit Sudan, Parenting Writer, says, “Before entering an Uber vehicle, it’s crucial to verify the driver and vehicle details for your safety.” She adds that before boarding a taxi, she always checks the driver’s detail, taxi plate number, driver’s name, photo, and rating. She advises female passengers to check the driver’s rating as it can help them know about the driver’s behavior, temperament or any issues.
Additionally, ask the driver to confirm your name before getting in the car to ensure they are indeed your assigned driver. This simple step helps prevent potential impersonation and ensures you are boarding the correct vehicle.
Share Trip Details
To keep loved ones informed and maintain an extra layer of security, use Uber’s built-in trip-sharing feature. By sharing your trip details with trusted friends or family members, they can track your journey in real-time and be aware of your location.
In case of any unforeseen circumstances, having someone aware of your whereabouts can provide peace of mind and prompt assistance if needed.
Sit in the Backseat
Whenever possible, choose to sit in the backseat of the Uber vehicle. This creates a physical distance between you and the driver, allowing for more personal space and reducing the possibility of any unwelcome advances.
Personal safety and comfort should always be prioritized, and sitting in the backseat is a simple precautionary measure.
Use Family Tracking Apps, GPS Tracker Devices, and Apple Watch
Family tracker apps, GPS tracking devices, or smartwatches like Apple Watch can be handy for women or young teens when traveling alone. You, as women, can use these apps or devices to stay connected with your family and friends and share your real-time location. Tweens or teens can also use these or tracking apps for safety when boarding a taxi.
Family tracking apps, such as Find My Friends or Life360, AT&T family, and Verizon family app, can allow your loved ones to track your location in real-time. This provides an additional level of security, especially when traveling alone.
Moreover, GPS tracker devices are small and can carry discretely without anyone noticing, enabling you to share your location with trusted individuals. These devices often come in the form of keychains or wearable accessories like Airtag and Giobit, making them easily accessible and unnoticeable.
Another valuable device to consider is an Apple Watch or a similar smartwatch. If you are a female, you can use smartwatches suitable for women and use them for your safety. We recommend you read the best smartwatch for women and pick a nice one for yourself. For teens we recommend best kids Apple watch.
These devices offer various safety features, such as emergency SOS functions that can quickly notify your emergency contacts or emergency services. Some smartwatches also have built-in fall detection and sound alarms, further enhancing personal safety.
Pregnant or older women can also use a smartwatch with a fall detection feature, sending an emergency SOS to their family members and emergency services to help them in distress.
By using family tracking apps, GPS tracker devices, or smartwatches, you can stay connected with your loved ones, allowing them to monitor your well-being and provide immediate assistance.
Stay Vigilant and Trust Your Instincts
Trust your instincts and remain alert throughout the ride. You have to be mindful of your surroundings, stay active and pay attention to the driver’s behavior and route.
If something feels off for you or makes you uncomfortable during the ride, don’t hesitate to speak up or ask the driver to pull over in a safe location. Always prioritize your well-being and act promptly if you sense any red flags.
Utilize the In-App Emergency Features
Uber provides several in-app safety features that can be invaluable during any emergency situation. Familiarize yourself with these features, such as the emergency button or panic alert, which can connect you directly to emergency services.
Additionally, the “Share Trip” feature mentioned earlier also doubles as a safety tool, enabling others to monitor your journey. These features are designed to assist you promptly and efficiently in times of distress, so don’t hesitate to use them when needed.
Travel During High-Demand Hours
Consider scheduling your Uber rides during high-demand hours when there are more drivers on the road and increased overall activity. This can contribute to a safer environment as the likelihood of encountering any issues is lower due to the higher number of people utilizing the service.
Furthermore, crowded areas tend to have enhanced security, adding an extra layer of protection.
Wrapping off
It is essential to stay vigilant and proactive when riding a taxi, especially at night. Uber does provide safe service to its passengers, and many of our team members who are women take taxis at night, sometimes alone; they never faced harassment or a sexual attack. Still, following Uber safety tips and being vigilant goes a long way for your safety.
From verifying driver and vehicle details to utilizing in-app emergency features, every step taken contributes to a secure ride.
By taking these precautions, female riders can confidently embrace the convenience of ride-sharing services while prioritizing their personal safety.
