Safety Tips to Know When Taking an Uber or Lyft

by admin

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Rideshares are one of the best and most convenient ways to get around, but they can also create some risks for those who trust the driver to get them to and from desired locations. While you may not have any idea what steps you can take to make sure you are minimizing the risk of accidents, there are a few safety tips to know when taking an Uber or Lyft that can safeguard your well-being.

Tips to Help You Stay Safe in Uber or Lyft

Taking a rideshare can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get to your destination, whether you’re running errands or going to the airport for a trip. Before you get into a stranger’s vehicle, though, we ask you to consider the following tips the next time you take an Uber or Lyft. If you do experience an unfortunate incident, an Uber and Lyft accident attorney in Atlanta may be able to assist you.

Check the License Plate Number

Be sure the license plate number provided to you in the Uber or Lyft app matches the one that pulls up to pick you up. You should not rely just on the type of vehicle. Verify the details of who is picking you up.

Don’t Ride With a Driver You Believe is Unfit

If you greet the driver and they seem to be intoxicated, or you do not feel safe for any reason, do not get into the vehicle. The key here is to trust your instincts. Even if the driver seems friendly and has a positive record, that does not mean you will be safe. Remember that if you do not feel safe, you have the right to cancel the ride.

Position Yourself for Safety

Where you sit matters. The best location is to sit in the backseat of the car on the passenger side. This allows you to have access to both doors if there is any reason that you need to get out of the car. If you do not feel safe at any time, find a way to get out of the car.

Protect Yourself When Getting Into and Out of the Car

Be sure to recognize the risks of getting into and out of the car, too. Look around to make sure the car has come to a full stop and no one else is approaching it. You do not want to be hit by the vehicle. Before opening the door, be sure there are no cars, pedestrians, or bike riders approaching the vehicle. If you do not feel safe getting out of the vehicle where the driver parked or getting into it for the same reason, ask the driver to move to a safer location.

In every situation, the goal should be to be safe. However, if something does go wrong, know that you also have the right to take action.

Steps to Follow After a Rideshare Accident

Being in a rideshare accident can be a stressful and traumatizing experience. When you call a Lyft or Uber, you expect your driver to deliver you safely to your destination. If they fail to do so, the consequences can be significant. If you are involved in any sort of collision or other incident, you may benefit from:

Getting to a safe location, away from the crash and any dangerous leaks or vehicle parts
Calling 911 for assistance
Seeking medical attention, even if you don’t believe you were seriously hurt
Getting the information for your rideshare driver and other motorists involved in the incident
Taking down contact details for any witnesses
Speaking to a local rideshare accident attorney with experience litigating similar cases

We hope that these tips help you enjoy a safe trip the next time you decide to call an Uber or Lyft!