Many people use rideshare services frequently, as a reliable and experienced lawyer that clients trust is highly familiar with. Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft are convenient, easy to use, and fairly affordable for many people who rely on alternative modes of transportation. However, as more people use rideshare services, more people also become victims of accidents. Being vigilant and knowing key safety tips and strategies can keep you from being a vulnerable target to criminals. Become familiar with the following tips whenever you are using a rideshare service so that you do not end up being the next victim.
Choose Busy or Crowded Places
The type of environment where you are picked up or dropped off can affect your chances of being a crime victim. When you are using Uber or Lyft, one critical tip to keep yourself safe is to choose a designated pick-up or drop-off location that is in a public and visible area, as an Uber/Lyft crime victim lawyer like one from Deitch + Rogers can tell you. There is safety in numbers, so choosing a location that has high foot traffic can help you avoid becoming a victim of a crime. You are more likely to become a victim of a crime if you are in spaces that are too far from other people.
Find Well-Lit Areas
Another important thing to keep in mind whenever you are using a rideshare app is how brightly lit the location is. When choosing a pick-up or drop-off site, pay attention to what the lighting is like. Is it near many buildings, such as an urban area, or is it in a more rural location? Choose somewhere that is near a busy street where there are many streetlights so that you can be seen by other people. Do not pick sites that are dimly lit or not lit well at all. Stay in areas that have a lot of light so you can be seen by more people.
Verify Driver Information
Before you get into the rideshare vehicle, always verify the vehicle and driver information. Review the license plate number, as well as the vehicle color make and model. Check the name of the driver and what they look like. When you approach the rideshare vehicle, confirm their identity and clearly state your name as well. Always confirm that you are getting into the correct vehicle before getting inside it.
Share Your Trip
It is always a good idea to let someone know if you are using a rideshare vehicle. If you are using Uber or Lyft, you should inform a friend or family member that you are using a rideshare service. Both apps allow you to share links so that another person can see where your vehicle is as you travel along the route. It is important for at least one person to be aware that you are in a rideshare vehicle so that they will be able to assist you in case an emergency happens. If you would like more information about how to seek legal assistance if you have been a crime victim, reach out to a lawyer as soon as possible.
