Tips on Staying Safe When Taking an Uber or Lyft in Los Angeles

1. Wait Inside for Your Driver

It’s tempting to wait on the curb until your driver arrives, especially if you are in a hurry to get to your destination. But waiting outside can be dangerous, especially in certain areas of the city. Stay inside until you see your car to be on the safe side. And keep in mind that your app will notify you when the driver has arrived.

2. Consider the Driver’s Rating

Once you’ve been assigned a driver, check out that person’s rating. If you see something you are uncomfortable with, cancel the ride and schedule another. You don’t have to settle for the first option that comes your way. 

3. Double-Check the License Plate

The app will share with you certain information, including the name of the driver and the make and model of the vehicle. That information can be helpful, but it shouldn’t be your only indicator that the car you are hopping into is indeed your ride. 

The app will also share the license plate number, which you should always verify before getting into the car.

4. Don’t Share Your Personal Information

There’s nothing wrong with chatting up your Uber or Lyft driver, but be wary of sharing any personal information like your full name, address, or the name of the place where you are staying. If you are on your way home, keep that information to yourself. As far as the driver knows, you are getting dropped off at a friend’s house or party location!

5. Sit in the Backseat

Even if you are traveling alone, it’s best to get into the back or, better yet, the back middle seat of the car. It’s safer for both you and the driver and will ensure that everyone feels comfortable. 

6. Keep Friends and Family in the Loop

Before you get into the vehicle, send a text to a friend or family member to let them know what you are doing and where you are headed. Both the Uber and Lyft apps have features that allow you to share your ETA with friends and family and will inform the recipient of the driver’s name and photo, as well as other helpful information.

7. Encourage Safety

As the vehicle passenger, you have no control over the decisions being made behind the wheel. However, there are things you can do to promote safe behavior. Never open the door until the car has stopped completely. And don’t ask the driver to get you to your destination quicker than is reasonable. 

8. Trust Your Instincts

As is the case in most social situations, your instincts are one of your most valuable assets. Trust your gut if something feels off about the car or the driver and cancel the ride. Even if you are not yet to your destination, you can request that the driver pull over and drop you off at any time.