Do you find yourself reaching for your device to book a ride whenever you need to get somewhere? If yes, then here’s your read. Ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, offering convenience and efficiency. However, with this convenience comes the responsibility to prioritize personal safety. While these platforms often implement safety measures, added security steps is essential for a secure ride. This article outlines five crucial security measures you should take when booking a ride, ensuring peace of mind and a safe journey.
Verify Driver and Vehicle Information
The first and foremost measure when booking a ride is to verify the driver’s details. To do this, match the driver’s photo, car make, model, and license plate with the details provided in the app. A simple mismatch could indicate a potential safety risk. Further, always ask the driver to confirm your name, adding an extra layer of identification.
While verifying details, also observe the driver’s demeanor. Do they appear nervous, agitated, or evasive? Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it likely is. Additionally, briefly examine the vehicle’s condition. Are the doors and windows functioning correctly? Does the interior appear clean and well-maintained? An unkempt vehicle can sometimes be a red flag.
If you notice anything unusual, suspicious, or that doesn’t align with the app’s information, cancel the ride immediately. Do not hesitate. Your safety is paramount.
Pro Tip: Check the driver’s ratings. Do not book a ride with a driver with low ratings.
Share your Ride Details
After successful verification of the driver’s details, share every information about your ride with your family and friends. Most ride-hailing apps offer a ‘share trip’ feature. Utilize this to provide a trusted contact with your real-time location, driver details, and destination. This ensures someone is aware of your journey and can track your progress.
A better option is to make use of the Limestone app. With the new StoneCircle features on the app, you can share your create a safety circle, update your circle about your journey, send panic alerts if trouble arises and get updated about real-time incidents, if any, along your route.
Stay at Alert
Your responsibility extends beyond simply entering the vehicle; you must maintain active vigilance throughout the ride. Be on the lookout for any suspicious behavior and remain alert throughout the ride, monitoring the route on your phone’s GPS. If the driver deviates from the expected path or if you feel uneasy, trust your instincts and request to be dropped off in a safe, public location.
Pro tip: Do not forget to share updates like this if it occurs in your safety circle on StoneCircle.
Sit in the Back Seat
It may look cool to sit in the back seat, but it goes way beyond that. Doing this creates a physical distance between you and the driver and also allows for easier and quicker exit from either side of the vehicle if needed.
From the back, you also have a better view that allows you to observe the driver’s behavior, the surrounding environment, and any potential threats more effectively. And according to statistics, the back seat is safer than the front passenger seat.
Never get too Comfortable
Getting involved in a little chit chat with your Uber driver during a ride is not discouraged, but don’t get too comfortable. Avoid sharing sensitive details about yourself or family, your home address, workplace, or phone number with the driver. Communicate primarily through the app’s messaging system to maintain privacy and security.
Conclusion
Ride-hailing services offer immense convenience, but safety should never be compromised. By consistently implementing these security measures you can prevent a bad occurrence from happening. Always remember, your safety is paramount, and taking these simple steps when booking a ride can make a significant difference.
Booking your next ride soon? Download the Limestone app ahead!
Always ensure they don’t end your trip while you’re still in the cab too. These days, for selfish reasons they do sometimes.
Safety is key.