
As someone who LOVES to travel, I have used Uber on a regular basis; it's so convenient when I couldn't rent a car or if I was enjoying a few cocktails downtown. However, I have always been aware of the unique safety challenges women and marginalized genders face when using these services. Studies show that women are disproportionately targeted for harassment and assault in rideshare settings, making awareness and proactive measures essential for personal safety.
The Reality of Rideshare Safety for Women
According to Helping Survivors, Uber’s first safety report revealed 5,981 sexual violence or assault allegations in 2017 and 2018 — 3,045 of which were in 2018. Lyft’s first safety report was released in 2020 and showed similar percentages of sexual violence against rideshare passengers. This statistic underscores the importance of addressing safety concerns and equipping individuals with the tools to protect themselves.
Steps to Stay Safe in Rideshares
Verify Your Ride: Always confirm the vehicle’s license plate, driver’s name, and photo in your rideshare app before entering the car. Ask the driver, “Who are you here to pick up?” rather than offering your name first. This simple step can prevent impostors from taking advantage.
Share Your Trip Details: Use the app’s feature to share your trip status with a trusted friend or family member. This ensures someone you trust knows your whereabouts in real time.
Ride in the Back Seat: Research suggests that sitting in the back seat provides a safer physical barrier and allows for quicker exits if necessary.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, don’t hesitate to end the ride in a safe, public location. Your comfort and safety should always come first.
Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as texting or listening to music with headphones. Staying aware of your surroundings can help you detect unusual behavior or changes in the route.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Research from advocacy groups highlights how perpetrators often use personal details to establish control or familiarity. Keep your conversations neutral and professional.
Leverage Safety Features: Both Uber and Lyft offer emergency buttons in their apps, allowing you to contact authorities quickly. Familiarize yourself with these tools before your next ride.
Avoid Unplanned Stops: Be cautious if a driver suggests detours or unplanned stops. Staying on the route outlined in the app is the safest option.
Carry Safety Tools: A personal safety alarm, legal pepper spray, or a whistle can provide an added layer of protection. Studies show that loud noises and visible deterrents often discourage perpetrators.
Know Your Rights: If a driver behaves inappropriately, document the incident and report it through the app immediately. Rideshare companies are legally required to investigate these claims.
Use a Buddy System: When possible, travel with a friend, especially during late hours. Research suggests that individuals are less likely to be targeted when accompanied by others.
Set Boundaries: Assertiveness is key. If a driver’s comments or actions make you uncomfortable, make it clear that the behavior is unwelcome. Empowering women to vocalize discomfort can help reduce incidents.
Resources for Support
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, remember that help is available. Here are evidence-based resources to provide support and guidance:
National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): Call 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit www.rainn.org for confidential, 24/7 support. RAINN’s data-driven programs have assisted millions of survivors.
SafeRide Programs: Many universities and cities offer SafeRide programs, designed to provide free
or low-cost transportation for individuals who feel unsafe.
Local Advocacy Centers: Use the NSVRC’s search tool to locate sexual assault crisis centers in your area for counseling, advocacy, and legal assistance.
Uber and Lyft Safety Resources: Both platforms have dedicated safety teams. Learn about their tools to report incidents and access safety guidelines:
Advocating for Change
We must demand systemic change to address the gendered violence present in rideshare environments. This includes calling for improved driver vetting processes, mandatory safety training, and transparent reporting mechanisms. Advocacy, education, and community engagement are powerful tools for fostering safer public spaces for women. This is a Call to Action, go to No More to learn about how you can make a difference in addressing sexual violence.
Remember, prioritizing your safety is not just an individual responsibility but a collective effort to challenge and change the systems that enable violence. Share these tips and resources widely to empower others to stay safe and advocate for a safer rideshare experience for everyone.
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