9 Tips For Using Uber and Lyft
Using rideshare companies such as Uber or Lyft have become a common practice for travelers, for rideshares offer convenience and reasonable upfront prices quotes. Here are tips for using Uber and Lyft.
What is ridesharing?
Ridesharing, in a nutshell, is when a company connects a driver with a passenger via an app, for more information, click here.
How to get started with Uber and Lyft
- Download the app for Uber or Lyft (if you haven’t already)
- Set up an account with your photo and debit or credit card (your photo is for the driver’s safety, and so they can identify you)
- Put in your destination into the app
- Follow instruction
- When the car arrives to verify that the vehicle and driver match the information provided on the app
Apps used by Uber passengers
Not Just Anyone Can Drive For Rideshares
Rideshare companies use a vetting process for hiring drivers; You can check out the criteria here Lyft and Uber. The main take away is these companies check not only driving history but also conducts criminal background checks.
Watch Out For Scammers
Sadly not all people follow the rules and are looking to scam or harm you. Rideshare companies do their best to keep you safe, but unfortunately, scammers are out there. You have to do your part to protect yourself as well. Point three has essential tips on avoiding scammers.
Tips for Using Rideshares
Uber rider getting into a car they requested from the app (Photo courtesy of Uber)
For A Successful & Safe Trip
- Plan a safe trip, make sure your pick up and drop off points are safe places.
- Whenever possible, wait inside for your ride because imposter drivers are looking for people who appear to be waiting for a car, the app will send an alert when the driver arrives.
- Before entering a vehicle check for a company logo displayed in the window, and verify that driver and vehicle information matches the information provided on the app. The app gives you the car’s color, brand/model, license plate number, along with the driver’s name and photo. If none of these matches, take it as a red flag. Either that car is not your or ride, or it is an imposter driver. Never tell the driver your name, ask the driver who they are picking up first before giving them any information. Drivers app shows the name of whom they are picking up, so they should know your name.
- For your safety, sit in the back seat, when possible
- Sharing is caring, tell a friend that you hired a car and where you are going. A simple text with your plans, sending a screenshot of the information, or you can hit the “share status” once your trip has started are ways you can inform others. That way, someone you trust knows the details in case something goes wrong.
- Protect your information, because there is never a reason to give any personal information to a driver. Billing and payments are done in the app using the card you have on file, and drivers do not take cash payments. Uber anonymize phone numbers for everyone safety, so drivers do not need your phone number.
- Let your gut be your guide if something feels wrong or dangerous, safely leave the car, and for an emergency, call 911
- Rate your driver; this gives the parent companies feedback on how their drivers are doing; a rating is just as crucial for good drivers as well as poor drivers.
- Be kind and respectful to your driver, remember, you are riding in their car.
The chance of something terrible happening is low. But by following these suggestions, you’ll be safer and can help you to avoid fake drivers that want to cheat the system or hurt you.
If you interested in using ridesharing, start here Uber or Lyft.
Be safe and travel safe!
Kev
If you are planning a trip with Amtrak check out the expanding traveling by rail section. Feel free to reach out if you have travel questions.
If you like what you see, and want to help support Travels with Kev, click here, and thank you!
Photos in this article are courtesy of Uber
