Ride-hailing apps are skyrocketing in popularity and for good reason. If you are drinking, you can simply summon a car to pick you up from almost anywhere and drive you safely home. However, it’s important to take some safety precautions since you’ll be riding with a stranger. Especially if you are intoxicated or otherwise not in your usual alert frame of mind. Check driver ratings to make sure that others have rated the driver well. Wait with another person so that you aren’t standing on the street alone. Check your driver’s identity and car credentials, and follow the route on the app. Finally, be careful when approaching and exiting the vehicle, and always ride in the back. If you plan to go out drinking, apps like Uber, Lyft, or simple cab rides can ensure that you get home safely without risking a DWI.
Using Ride-Hailing Apps Safely: Uber, Lyft, and Others
Check Driver Ratings
When using ride-hailing apps, it’s always best to check your driver’s ratings. You can typically see comments from other riders on the app. If you are nervous about the rating, you can always cancel the ride and order another vehicle.
Wait With Somebody
When using ride-hailing apps, never wait outside for the car by yourself. Instead, wait inside the bar or restaurant, or ask a friend to wait with you. It’s also possible to share your ride and location with a friend. This is a great way to be sure that another person knows your whereabouts in case something unusual or dangerous happens.
Confirm Identity
Confirm your identity every time you use ride-hailing apps. You should have your driver’s name and car info, including their license number. When they pull up, they should also know your name as well. Confirm their identity before getting into their car. If they don’t have the correct license, or if their face doesn’t match the picture in the app, cancel the ride.
Riding and Exiting Safely
Finally, it’s important to get in and out of the car safely when using ride-hailing apps. Never get out into a busy street, instead exiting to and from the sidewalk. Ride in the backseat where you are further from the driver. Furthermore, you can check the route in the app as you ride to ensure that the driver is taking the correct steps. If anything feels strange or threatening about your ride, call the police immediately.
Ride-hailing apps are changing the way we get around. While many people use them for getting home safely after drinking, others use them for just about all their transportation. Just make sure that you are taking precautions every time you use these kinds of apps. Check driver ratings and wait with a friend or inside the restaurant if it’s late at night. Furthermore, confirm the driver’s identity when they pull up and check their license credentials. If anything doesn’t match, don’t be hesitant about canceling the ride. Get in on the sidewalk, and check that the road is clear before getting out. Ride in the back and follow the route in the app to ensure your driver is taking you where they’re supposed to. Luckily, ride-sharing apps allow you to get home safely after a night of drinking without getting behind the wheel.