Tips for Using Uber and Lyft
(FinancialHealth.net) – Ride-sharing is all the rage with many people choosing services such as Uber and Lyft over traditional taxi cabs to save money.
These services can be cost-saving and convenient, but with some alarming reports of drunk drivers and even people posing as drivers, riders should practice safety above all. Here are some tips to keep in mind before hopping in the back of the next ride.
Wait Indoors
Those waiting for a ride should remain indoors until the app alerts that the driver has pulled up. This limits the chances of someone else pulling up pretending to be a driver, as well as protects the rider from being accosted on the street. When the driver arrives, they have the necessary details to contact the rider, if necessary.
Verify The Driver and Vehicle
Riders shouldn’t just hop in the vehicle the moment it arrives. Instead, verify that the driver is indeed the one who is listed in the Uber or Lyft app and check the vehicle details such as the make, model, color and license plate. All of this information is listed in the app for convenience and verifying can help to keep passengers safe.
Relay Details to Friends or Family
Make sure someone always knows the details such as time of pickup, driver’s name and car information. If a rider doesn’t get to their destination, this information can help authorities.
With Uber, users can click “share status” with anyone. Those receiving a shared status don’t need to download the app to track the ETA and trip status, plus they get access to all of the driver information, including their license in case they need to file a report.
Maintain Personal Privacy
Riders should not share personal details such as phone numbers or credit card information, with their Uber or Lyft drivers. If the driver requests any such information, riders can cancel the request and should report the incident directly to the company via the app.
The apps make sure both parties can contact each other for purposes of the contracted ride and the payment is handled directly through the company via the app as well, including tips.
Employ Common Sense
Safety is paramount, but it’s not just about taking the above steps. If something doesn’t feel right, riders have the option to, and should, cancel the request.
After canceling, passengers should make sure to report the incident through the app’s support system to avoid receiving a negative rating (which may deter other drivers from picking them up in the future). This also alerts the company to a potential problem with that specific driver and can help to keep other riders safe.
If you’re considering using, or already regularly use, ride-sharing apps, be aware of your surroundings at all times and consider the above tips. It’s better to be cautious in the beginning than to have a negative experience.
~Here’s to Your Financial Health!
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