The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year, with many people opting for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft to get around. Whether you are avoiding crowded parking lots at the mall or choosing not to drive after a holiday party, rideshares can be convenient and practical. However, with more drivers and passengers on the road, the risk of accidents and safety incidents increases. It is important to stay vigilant and take steps to protect yourself.
Here are some essential holiday rideshare safety tips to ensure you have a safe and stress-free journey.
Verify Your Driver and Vehicle
Before getting into a rideshare vehicle, always confirm that you are entering the right car. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft provide you with key details about your driver and the vehicle to help you verify their identity.
- Check the Driver’s Name and Photo: Make sure the driver’s name and photo in the app match the person picking you up.
- Verify the License Plate Number: Compare the vehicle’s license plate number with the one shown in the app.
- Look for the Vehicle’s Make and Model: The app will also show the make and model of the vehicle. Double-check this before getting in.
If anything feels off or if the driver is not who was listed, cancel the ride and request a new one.
Share Your Trip Details
To add an extra layer of security, most rideshare apps allow you to share your trip details with a friend or family member. This feature provides peace of mind, especially if you are traveling alone or late at night.
- Use the Share My Trip Feature: Send your ride details, including the route and estimated time of arrival, to someone you trust.
- Let Someone Know When You Arrive: Once you reach your destination safely, notify your friend or family member.
Sharing your trip can make it easier for others to track your location if an issue arises during your ride.
Choose the Safest Seat
Where you sit in a rideshare vehicle can make a difference in your overall safety. Experts recommend sitting in the back seat, preferably on the passenger side.
- Sit in the Back: This gives you more personal space from the driver and allows for a quick exit if necessary.
- Wear Your Seatbelt: Always buckle up, regardless of where you are sitting. Seatbelts are essential for holiday rideshare safety, especially in case of a crash.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information
While it may seem polite to chat with your driver, avoid sharing any personal information during your ride. Rideshare drivers are required to maintain professionalism, and passengers should do the same.
- Keep Conversations Light: Stick to general topics and avoid sharing details like your home address or travel plans.
- Do Not Share Payment Details: Payment for rides is handled through the app. Never give your credit card or cash directly to the driver.
If your driver asks inappropriate questions or makes you feel uncomfortable, report the behavior to the rideshare company immediately.
What to Do if an Accident Happens
Despite following all holiday rideshare safety precautions, accidents can happen. If you are involved in a rideshare accident, it is important to stay calm and take the following steps:
- Check for Injuries: Make sure you and any other passengers are okay. Seek medical attention immediately if anyone is hurt.
- Gather Information: Collect the driver’s contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. Take photos of the accident scene and any damages.
- Report the Accident: Notify the rideshare company about the accident through their app. They will guide you through the next steps.
- Call an Attorney: After an accident, it is crucial to understand your legal rights. Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for guidance on how to proceed.
Why Choose Fielding Law?
At Fielding Law, we understand the complexities that come with rideshare accidents. If you are injured while using a rideshare service, our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you navigate your case. We offer compassionate, personalized attention and will fight for the compensation you deserve.
We know the holiday season should be a time for celebration, not stress. Let Fielding Law take care of the legal process, so you can
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.
