Verify the vehicle and driver before entering
Check three things: (1) license plate — must match the app exactly, (2) car make, model, and color — must match, (3) driver photo — must match the person behind the wheel. Ask "What's my name?" Don't say your name first — a scammer fishing for rides will guess. Legitimate drivers have your name in the app.
Share your trip with a trusted contact
Both Uber and Lyft have in-app trip sharing features. Uber: tap the shield icon → "Share my trip." Lyft: tap "Send ETA." Share your live location with a friend or family member before every ride. This creates a live record of your route and a direct alert to someone who knows you if something goes wrong.
Sit in the back seat
Sitting in the back gives you more distance from the driver, easier exit options from both rear doors, and better visibility of the road ahead. Avoid sitting directly behind the driver (harder for them to access you physically). Don't fall asleep on unfamiliar routes.
Trust your instincts — it's OK to cancel
If the driver asks you to sit in the front, acts erratically, takes an unexpected route, or makes you uncomfortable for any reason, you have the right to ask to be let out in a public place. You can cancel the trip after exiting. Report safety concerns through the app — both Uber and Lyft have 24/7 safety teams.
Use the in-app emergency button
Both Uber and Lyft have emergency SOS buttons that connect to 911 and automatically share your real-time location and trip details with dispatchers. Uber: tap the shield icon → "Emergency." Lyft: tap the shield icon → "Emergency Assistance." Find these before you need them.
Don't share personal information
Decline to share your phone number, home address (use a nearby landmark instead), workplace, or other personal details. Both platforms use anonymized phone numbers for driver-passenger communication — your real number is protected if you communicate through the app.
Report incidents — even minor ones
Go to your trip history → the trip in question → "Get Help." You can report unsafe driving, harassment, or anything that made you uncomfortable. Rideshare companies use these reports to deactivate drivers. Serious incidents should also be reported to local police — the app report does not replace a police report.
Late Night Rides
Wait inside until your driver arrives — don't stand on the curb alone. Use well-lit pickup spots. If possible, arrange rides with friends rather than riding solo late at night.
When You've Been Drinking
Verify the car before getting in — this is when mistakes happen most. Text your destination to a friend before you get in. Stay awake enough to monitor the route in the app.
Fake Rideshare Scams
Scammers loiter outside bars and events offering "rideshare" rides — they're not in the app. Never get into a car you didn't request through the official app. Real drivers don't solicit riders on the street.
Keep Your Phone Charged
A dead phone means no emergency SOS, no trip sharing, and no way to call for help. Keep a portable charger handy when going out for long nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the driver takes a different route?
Open the in-app map and monitor in real time. If the deviation seems significant or intentional, say clearly 'Please take me to [address].' If they don't correct, ask to be let out in a public, populated area and call 911. Use the in-app SOS button if necessary.
Can I request a specific driver gender on Uber or Lyft?
Neither Uber nor Lyft currently offer gender preference filtering. Using safety features — trip sharing, in-app SOS — is the recommended approach regardless of driver identity.
What if something happens and I need to report it to police?
Call 911 for emergencies. For after-the-fact reports, file with local police and also report through the app. Preserve your trip receipt (shows driver name, plate, time, and route) — this is your primary evidence. Both Uber and Lyft cooperate with law enforcement subpoenas.