College Health TV
Whether it’s a ride to class, a trip to a party, or an evening out with friends, ridesharing makes getting around campus and town easier than ever. However, with convenience comes the need for caution. As a college student, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being every time you get into a rideshare vehicle. Here are essential safety tips to keep in mind when using rideshare services.
1. Verify Your Driver and Vehicle
The first and most crucial step in ensuring your safety is making sure you’re getting into the right vehicle. As a college student, you might find yourself waiting for a ride during busy times on or around campus. With crowds of people, it can be easy to mistakenly hop into the wrong vehicle.
Here’s how you can make sure your driver is legit:
- Check the Details: When using Uber or Lyft, always verify your driver’s details in the app. This includes looking at the driver’s photo, the car’s model, and the license plate number.
- Compare Information: Don’t just look for the car that seems to match; double-check the license plate number before you get in.
- Use In-App Features: Rideshare services like Uber provide features to send your trip details (driver’s name, vehicle type, license plate, and your route) to trusted contacts. Use these to keep others informed about your ride.
2. Share Your Location and Ride Details
Just like you’d let a friend know when you’re meeting someone from an online dating app or going to a social event, you should do the same when using a rideshare service. In fact, notifying someone you trust about your ride is an essential safety measure.
- Text Your Location: Send a quick text or message to a friend saying, “I’m in the Uber, on my way home,” or something similar. It only takes a moment and can make all the difference.
- Share Trip Information: Most rideshare apps allow you to share your trip details in real-time with a trusted contact. This gives them your exact route and can be used if anything goes wrong.
3. Avoid Riding Solo When Impaired
It’s tempting to call a rideshare when you’re out partying or celebrating, but never forget that alcohol and drugs can make you more vulnerable. Whether you’re intoxicated or just a little buzzed, your ability to make decisions and stay aware of your surroundings is diminished.
- Don’t Ride Alone When Impaired: If you plan on drinking, try to always have a friend or group with you. Not only will it reduce the likelihood of potential dangers, but it also makes your ride safer and more enjoyable.
- Notify a Friend: If you do ride alone, ensure someone knows the driver’s name and license plate number before you get in the vehicle. Keep them updated throughout your ride and when you’ve safely reached your destination.
4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
When you’re in a rideshare, it’s easy to zone out and scroll through your phone, but maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial. Keep an eye on the route your driver is taking to ensure it matches your destination.
- Monitor the Route: If your driver takes a detour or goes in the wrong direction, politely ask them to get back on course. If they don’t respond to your requests or continue down an unfamiliar route, consider it a red flag and act accordingly.
- Trust Your Instincts: Your intuition is a powerful safety tool. If something feels off about the ride, whether it’s the driver’s behavior, the route, or anything else, don’t hesitate to get out of the car. Trust your gut and prioritize your safety.
5. Respect Reviews and Ratings
Reviews and ratings from other riders provide valuable insights into your driver’s reliability and safety. Don’t ignore these important safety measures:
- Check Driver Ratings: Always check the driver’s ratings before accepting a ride. High ratings mean that others have had positive experiences with the driver, while low ratings could be a warning sign.
- Read the Reviews: Take a quick look at recent reviews for more details about the driver. If there are any concerning patterns or negative feedback, consider choosing another driver.
- Leave Your Own Review: After your ride, leave a review for the driver, whether it’s positive or negative. This helps maintain accountability in the rideshare community.
6. Ride in the Back Seat for Safety
For your safety, always ride in the back seat, especially if you’re traveling alone. Sitting in the front seat increases your proximity to the driver, which could make you more vulnerable to unwanted attention.
- Stay at a Safe Distance: By sitting in the back seat, you maintain a safe distance from the driver while still being able to have a conversation if needed. This not only makes you feel more secure but also keeps you out of arm’s reach, reducing your risk of inappropriate behavior.
Keep Safety a Priority When Using Rideshare Services
Rideshare services are an essential part of campus life for many college students, but it’s crucial to stay vigilant and prioritize your safety. By verifying your driver, sharing your ride details with trusted contacts, staying aware of your surroundings, and listening to your instincts, you can ensure your rideshare experience remains safe and secure. Remember, it’s always better to take a little extra time and caution than to risk your safety. Stay safe and enjoy the convenience of ridesharing!
