Tip of the Week – Personal Security with Shared Ride Services
10 Tips to help keep your shared ride safe
With the widespread acceptance of shared ride services or Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) such as Uber and Lyft, we have seen ever increasing reports of assaults on female passengers by TNC drivers. The problem has been well documented in media reports and is closely tracked by the organization whosdrivingyou.org that publishes lists of incidents and the annual growth in attacks: http://www.whosdrivingyou.org/rideshare-incidents.
The growth of the problem may be tied to increased ridership, but the standard of required background screening of TNC drivers and lack of supervisory management are likely contributing factors. Cab drivers are licensed and in most states undergo extensive background checks including fingerprinting for positive identification. That is not the case with TNC drivers who are screened without fingerprinting for positive identification. TNC drivers are independent contractors and there is no supervision by management to monitor drivers and identify unusual or risky behavior in advance of the development of problems.
TNC’s only provide a platform for you to do business with a driver and do not accept responsibility for the outcome. It is your responsibility to ensure your own safety and security when using a TNC. Remember, when using a TNC, you are accepting a ride from a stranger.
Following are 10 tips to help keep you safe:
1. Wait inside for your ride.
2. Follow your driver’s arrival on the app to help eliminate a false pick up.
3. Confirm the car and driver’s identity with the app before getting into the car.
4. Never ride up front.
5. Don’t be chatty and never share your travel plans with the driver.
6. Stay awake and in control.
7. Don’t ride alone if you are intoxicated – get a friend to take you home or accompany you on the ride.
8. Pay attention to your route and have 911 programmed on speed dial.
9. Keep friends or family informed of your progress.
10. Trust your instincts and remember you can always decline the ride.
 Kathy LeodlerChief Executive Officer Email:kathy.l@rampartgroup.com Phone: (360) 981-2703 PI License #3555 |
 Paul LeodlerExecutive Vice President Email:paul.l@rampartgroup.com Phone: (360) 981-3397 PI License #4180 |
We at Rampart Group are committed to your security. Call 1-800 421-0614 or contact us today with your security or investigative needs.
Additional information on using Ride Share Services:
LYFT:
Terms of Service: https://www.lyft.com/terms
Safety Tips for Riders: https://www.lyft.com/safety
UBER:
Terms and Conditions: https://www.uber.com/legal/terms/us/
Safety Tips for Riders: https://www.uber.com/ride/safety/