Rideshare Safety Tips from Former Secret Service Agent Evy Pompuras
As rideshare services like Uber and Lyft continue to grow in popularity, concerns about the safety and vetting of drivers also rise. In a recent episode of "Dateline: True Crime Weekly," former Secret Service agent and author, Evy Pompuras, shared essential safety tips to consider before stepping into a rideshare vehicle.
Key Safety Tips
1. Verify the Driver and Vehicle
When your rideshare vehicle arrives, avoid asking, "Are you here for [your name]?" Instead, ask the driver to identify whom they are picking up. This ensures that you are getting into the correct vehicle.
2. Strategic Pick-Up Location
For added security, especially when being picked up from home, consider moving the pick-up pin to a corner or a few doors away from your actual location. This can be particularly useful if you are going to be away for a long time.
3. Share Ride Details
Take a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and send it to a trusted person. Additionally, enable location sharing on your phone so that friends or family can track your journey.
4. Stay Aware and Alert
While it may be tempting to zone out with headphones or get engrossed in your phone, it’s crucial to remain aware of your surroundings. Keep the volume low if you must use headphones and periodically check the route the driver is taking using a map application.
5. Be Prepared
Always think about what items in your purse or bag could be used for self-defense in case of an emergency. Simple objects like keys or pens can be handy.
6. Discreet Drop-Off
If you live alone, consider having the driver drop you off at a different location close to your home, especially if you live in a house. For apartment dwellers in large buildings, it’s less of a concern since it's harder to determine your exact apartment.
7. Maintain Line of Sight
When exiting the vehicle, walk behind the car and keep it in your line of sight until it drives away. This ensures you can see any suspicious behavior and react accordingly.
Concerning Statistics
According to Uber's 2019 to 2020 US Safety Report, nearly 4,000 sexual assaults were reported to the company during this period. This statistic underscores the importance of being vigilant and taking necessary precautions when using rideshare services. While Uber and other rideshare companies have implemented safety measures such as background checks, in-app safety features, and emergency assistance buttons, it's crucial for passengers to stay aware of their surroundings and follow safety tips, such as:
- Share your trip details: Always share your trip information with a trusted friend or family member so they can track your journey in real time.
- Verify your driver: Before getting into the car, check that the vehicle's license plate, make, model, and the driver's photo match the details provided in the app.
- Sit in the back seat: This provides personal space and ensures access to either side of the vehicle in case of emergency.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, don’t hesitate to end the ride and exit the vehicle.
- Rate and report: After your trip, provide honest feedback and report any concerning behavior to the rideshare company to help keep others safe.
While rideshare services can be convenient, safety should always be a top priority.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on this important topic. Have you ever had a rideshare experience where you felt unsafe, or do you have additional safety tips to share? Please feel free to leave a comment below and join the conversation. Your insights could help others stay safe too!
Grab our free download featuring these 7 essential safety tips so you always have them on hand! Whether you're a frequent rideshare user or just want to stay prepared, this visual guide is a quick and easy reference to keep you safe on the go. Download it now, and don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!
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