When it comes to ridesharing in Los Angeles, Uber and Lyft are by far the most popular apps. Because these companies employ the most drivers, they offer the shortest wait times and some of the best rates in the industry. So if you’re looking to reach an event in Los Angeles, these are your best options.
But before you hop into the next Honda Civic or Ford Fusion that pulls up to the curb, check out these safety tips. Doing what you can to protect yourself is always a good idea. Keep reading to find out how.
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.
Contact Our Uber & Lyft Accident Law Firm in Los Angeles, CA if You’ve Been Involved in an Uber or Lyft Incident
If you ever feel that your rights have been violated by an Uber or Lyft driver, call an attorney. You need to get representation when another person’s behaviors have put you at risk.
If you were injured in an Uber accident in Los Angeles, CA or you lost a loved one and you need legal assistance, please contact us to schedule a free consultation. One of our Los Angeles Uber & Lyft accident lawyers at M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers will get in touch with you soon.
M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers – Los Angeles Office
4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 960,
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(877) 300-4535