JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | June 10, 2025 | Car Accidents
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have become a common method for getting around Encino, but their convenience doesn’t guarantee their safety. While most trips proceed without incident, some situations may require extra caution.
Whether you’re heading to a friend’s house or commuting across town, there are some simple steps you can take to stay alert and reduce your risk of harm.
Verify the Vehicle Before Getting In
One of the easiest ways to stay safe is to confirm that the car and driver match the information on the app. Always take a look at the vehicle make, model, and license plate and the driver’s photo. If anything doesn’t match, cancel the ride. Uber and Lyft don’t allow drivers to swap vehicles without updating the system.
Ask the Driver to Confirm Your Name
Before getting in, ask the driver who they’re picking up. A legitimate driver will be able to say the passenger’s first name. Riders should always avoid saying their name first to ensure that the driver is reading it from the app and not guessing.
If anything ever feels off about an interaction or a driver hesitates to confirm basic details, consider skipping the ride and requesting another one instead.
Choose the Right Seat
When riding alone, the safest seating option is almost always the back seat of the vehicle on the passenger side. This position provides two clear exits and a good amount of personal space for the rider. It also makes it easier to monitor the driver and maintain a safe distance from them within the vehicle.
It may be necessary to sit in the front seat when traveling with others, but if you’re pressured to sit up front as a solo rider, consider it a red flag. It’s within a passenger’s rights to decline and cancel the ride if needed.
Keep Loved Ones in the Loop
Uber and Lyft both offer trip sharing, which allows riders to send real-time trip updates, including their location and an estimated time of arrival, to friends or family members. This feature can help others keep an eye out, especially when you’re on a longer ride, in a new area, or traveling at night.
Don’t Overshare Personal Information
Friendly conversation is acceptable and common, but it’s best to avoid sharing sensitive information with an unfamiliar driver. If a driver asks unusual questions or requests specific information, report their actions through the platform.
Trust Your Instincts and Exit Early if Necessary
If the driver’s behavior raises concerns, it’s okay to end the ride early. App users can change the destination or add a stop and get out safely when the car slows down. There’s no need to justify leaving a ride if something feels off.
Both Uber and Lyft also offer an in-app emergency button. This feature allows riders to contact 911 and provides location and trip details automatically.
Take Safety Precautions Every Time
In addition to rider-specific tips, it helps to follow basic safety practices:
- Always wear a seat belt
- Avoid entering rideshare vehicles under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Don’t accept a ride if the driver appears impaired
- Avoid distractions and stay alert and present during the ride
These small measures can make a big difference in terms of personal safety.
Ridesharing Presents Real Risks
Uber and Lyft continue to invest in more advanced safety features, including anonymous communication methods, real-time ride tracking and GPS, and thorough background checks for drivers. Even so, technology can’t eliminate every risk. In the company’s latest safety report, Uber acknowledged 2,717 incidents of sexual assault.
Contact the Encino Car Accident Lawyers at JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Choosing to use a rideshare service shouldn’t cause fear. By following a few sensible best practices, riders can reduce their risk and get where they need to go without stress.
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation today at (833) 852-3600.
Our main office is in Encino, CA, but we serve all through Los Angeles County.
JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers
16633 Ventura Blvd suite 1011,
Encino, CA 91436
