Ridesharing apps have become a game-changer in our daily lives. A few flicks on your smartphone, and a ride appears at your doorstep within minutes. But with this increased convenience comes a responsibility to prioritize your safety.
This is especially true as the number of sexual assaults in the country continues to make headlines. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) reports that in the US, each year, there are at least 433,000 cases of sexual assault or rape involving victims aged 12 or above. Moreover, according to the CDC, about 55% of women admit to enduring sexual violence.
As a woman, your safety should be the highest priority when using such services. In this blog post, we’ll explore four key things you should follow to stay safe in the evolving rideshare landscape.
#1. Before You Get in the Car: Trust Your Instincts and Double-Check Everything
Before you book a ride, look into the safety protocols and procedures of the rideshare company you plan to use. While the recent uproar against Uber and Lyft prompted companies to reevaluate their safety measures, many people are still uninformed about it.
Uber, for example, introduced several new safety features following the controversies. These include an emergency assistance button and the “share my trip” feature. The changes came in response to mounting public pressure and lawsuits, including the high-profile Uber sexual assault lawsuit, which highlighted the issue of driver-related assaults. While companies are taking steps, it’s crucial to remember that your safety remains your ultimate responsibility.
Familiarize yourself with these new safety features. It can give you peace of mind and a sense of security during your trip. Moreover, listen to your intuition. If anything feels off about the situation, the driver’s behavior seems strange, the car doesn’t match the details in the app, or the location where you’re picked up feels unsafe – cancel the ride.
Your safety is paramount, and a minor inconvenience is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Finally, before stepping into the car, take a moment to verify the driver’s information. Match the photo on the app to the actual driver, confirm their name is correct, and double-check that the car’s make, model, and license plate number all align with what’s displayed in your app.
Are There Self-Defense Tools I Can Carry While Using Rideshare?
While the best focus is on prevention, some self-defense items might be legal to carry, depending on your state laws. Consider options such as a personal alarm, which emits a loud noise to deter an attacker and draw attention. Pepper spray might be an option, but check your state’s regulations carefully. Taking a self-defense course can also help you build skills and confidence for a worst-case scenario.
#2. During the Ride: Stay Alert and Maintain Boundaries
While rideshare companies have a responsibility to ensure passenger safety, you also play a crucial role in protecting yourself.
A 2022 investigation found that both Uber and Lyft knew about the issue of driver-related sexual assaults since 2014, with thousands of cases reported. But, instead, the company hid the facts and promoted its service as a viable option of transportation. This further highlights the need for women to take their safety into their own hands.
As tempting as it might seem to bury yourself in your phone or take a quick nap, avoid doing it. Instead, maintain situational awareness and observe your surroundings. Watch for any unexpected deviations. Sitting in the back seat creates a physical barrier between you and the driver, providing an extra sense of security.
Throughout the ride, it’s best to maintain a casual and polite conversation. Avoid disclosing personal information such as your home address or details about your personal life. Keep your phone charged and handy if you need it for an emergency.
Remember, your safety is foremost. Never feel compelled to continue a ride if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Can You Request a Female Driver on Uber or Lyft?
Currently, neither Uber nor Lyft offer the option to specifically request a female driver in most areas. However, some smaller, women-focused ridesharing services like Safr, Fasten, and Juno are emerging, which may provide this feature. It’s important to focus on the safety measures you CAN control, regardless of driver gender.
#3. If Something Feels Wrong: Speak Up and Don’t Be Afraid to Use Technology
If the driver’s behavior makes you uncomfortable, report it there and then. Be assertive and clearly state that you’d like to be dropped off at the next safe, well-lit location available.
Most ridesharing apps offer built-in panic buttons or emergency features. Understand these functionalities before your ride and use them if need be. If the situation escalates, and you feel under imminent threat, call 911 immediately. Moreover, don’t forget to report the accident to the rideshare company.
Rideshare companies rely on customer feedback to improve their safety measures and hold drivers accountable. So, when reporting an incident, share as much detail as you can. This includes the date, time, location, and a breakdown of the incident. Many rideshare apps have in-app reporting features, making it easy to document and share your experience.
A key challenge in combating sexual assault within ridesharing is the significant underreporting of incidents. According to UN Women, fewer than 40% of victims seek any help. Among these women, less than 10% report the crime to law enforcement. This means thousands of assaults still go unreported, hindering efforts to make the services safer.
What Should I Do if I Feel Unsafe in a Rideshare but Don’t Want to Escalate the Situation?
Discreetly text a trusted contact with your location and concerns, so someone is aware. You can also pretend you’re on a phone call with someone who’s expecting you shortly, mentioning your location. Finally, claim the driver is going the wrong way, or you entered the destination incorrectly, and ask to stop and re-enter the address.
#4. After the Ride: Report the Incident and Know Your Options
If you experience an incident during your ride, it’s crucial to report it immediately. By doing so, you not only act against it but also help create a safer rideshare experience for others.
Use the app’s reporting mechanisms to gather the details, and then contact your local law enforcement to file an official report. Even if you’re unsure about pursuing legal action at this point, filing a report creates a record of the incident.
Remember, you’re not alone. There are resources to help you through this difficult time. Organizations like RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) offer support and guidance to victims of sexual assault. You can reach them at 800-656-4673 or visit their website.
Additionally, if you’ve been assaulted, understand your legal options. TorHoerman Law suggests seeking legal advice to understand your rights and explore potential avenues for pursuing justice.
In conclusion, using rideshare as a woman requires vigilance to stay aware of your surroundings, and assertiveness to voice concerns. Moreover, it also requires preparedness with safety tools and a plan of action if things go wrong.
By following these four essential tips, you can take control of your safety and contribute to a safer transportation environment for all. Your voice and actions can make a difference — don’t hesitate to take the necessary steps to protect yourself when using rideshare services.
Remember, companies like Uber and Lyft are here to provide a service but, ultimately, your safety is your responsibility.
