5 Essential Tips For Staying Safe During Rideshare Trips

Do you remember when hailing a taxi meant standing on the curb, arm raised, hopefully towards the street? Those days are gone, replaced with the simple screen tap and convenience delivered to your doorstep through rideshare services. These digital platforms have changed how we move through our cities and made transportation more accessible.

But with that convenience comes the responsibility to be aware of our safety. Every day, millions of people get into a stranger’s car to take them to work meetings, social events, airports, and back home. While most of these rides end without incident, taking proactive steps to stay safe can make all the difference.

Let’s explore five tips that perfectly balance convenience and safety.

1. Check Your Ride Before You Get In

Staying safe when using rideshare starts with the fundamental step of verification. 

Take those extra seconds to double-check everything your app tells you against the car that shows up. Check the license plate number, car model, and color–these aren’t just random details but your first line of defense against danger. 

Remember, legitimate drivers expect and respect passengers who check these details.

The driver’s photo deserves your attention, too. Modern rideshare apps provide this feature for a reason, and you should use it to your advantage. Don’t feel awkward about looking at your driver’s face and matching it with the photo in your app. Your safety is more important than any momentary discomfort you might feel while doing these checks.

Ask your driver a simple question: “Who are you here to pick up?” Instead of telling them your name, let them confirm they’re your driver by saying your name first. 

This simple but powerful verification step can make all the difference in getting into the right car with the right person.

2. Share Your Trip with Trusted Contacts

Every major rideshare app now has trip-sharing features, but many passengers forget to use this safety tool. 

Choose a few trusted contacts—family members, close friends, or roommates—who can track your trip in real-time. These people become your safety net, ready to act if something seems off during your ride.

With modern technology, keeping others in the loop about where you are is easier than ever. Use these features by sharing your trip details regularly, especially during late-night rides or when you’re in unfamiliar areas. 

Your loved ones will appreciate you taking precautions, and you’ll feel more secure knowing someone’s got your back.

Remember to message your chosen contacts when you arrive safely at your destination. A quick “I’m here” text can prevent unnecessary worry and keep this safety habit effective. Remember, the people who care about you would rather get that confirmation message than wonder about you.

3. Choose Your Seat Wisely

Where you sit in the rideshare car can make a big difference to your safety and comfort during the trip. The rear passenger-side seat offers the best of both worlds: distance from the driver and quick exit access. From this position, you can see the driver and your surroundings while having your personal space.

From this seat, you can monitor the route through the windows and keep an eye on the driver without looking vigilant. You’ll have clear access to the door and window controls to get out quickly if needed. You can also have casual conversations without feeling too close or isolated.

Exits are more than just physical safety. They’re peace of mind. When you know you can get out of the car, you’ll feel more relaxed and in control. This confidence will make for a better experience for you and the driver.

4. Stay Alert and Trust Your Instincts

Rideshare has made transportation more convenient, but awareness of your surroundings is still crucial. Keep your phone charged and within reach, but don’t get so absorbed during your ride. Pay attention to the route and trust your gut if something feels off about the trip or the driver.

Your instincts have been developed over millions of years to protect you from harm. If something feels off, even if you can’t understand why, take it seriously. Don’t worry about being rude or paranoid—your safety trumps social niceties. Feel free to speak up if your driver takes a detour or makes you uncomfortable.

Remember, you can end a ride early if you feel unsafe. Rideshare apps have emergency features for a reason, and you should never hesitate to use them if needed. Your instincts are an early warning system–listen to them and take action when they indicate danger.

5. Protect Your Personal Information

In this connected world, protecting your personal information is as important as physical safety. Instead of sharing your phone number with drivers, use the app’s built-in messaging and calling features. These features keep your information private while allowing you to communicate about pickup locations or delays.

Consider using a nearby landmark or business as your pickup or drop-off point instead of your home address, especially late at night. This simple tweak creates a safety buffer around your personal space while keeping you close to your destination. Once your ride ends, you can always walk the short remaining distance.

Be mindful of what you chat about during your ride. Friendly banter can make the trip more enjoyable, but don’t share detailed information about your work, living situation, or travel plans. Keep it light and general, polite but private.

Conclusion

Safety during rideshare trips isn’t about luck but conscious choices and smart habits. 

Following these five tips adds layers of protection without sacrificing convenience. Remember, taking precautions isn’t about living in fear—it’s about being able to travel confidently and safely. 

Stay aware, trust your instincts, and make these safety habits yours. After all, the best journey ends with you arriving safely,  ready to take on what’s next.