Uber South Africa recommends that all passengers and driver-partners stay vigilant and use the app’s safety features to help ensure their safety while using Uber during the festive season.
“Safety is a two-way street, especially when two people are sharing a ride. And, while no means of transportation is 100 per cent free of accidents and incidents, we’re always looking for ways to improve safety,” said Alon Lits, the general manager of Uber South Africa.
He added that Uber has partnered with police representatives and experts in the safety industry in order to equip the driver-partners with safety tips to prevent them from becoming victims of crime.
Passengers are encouraged to check the license plate, vehicle colour and the driver’s name and photo before they get into the vehicle to ensure that it matches the description on the app.
It is also important to avoid spending unnecessary time outside with your phone in your hand. Passengers should rather wait indoors until they are notified through the app that the driver has arrived.
If a passenger is travelling alone they are encouraged to sit in the backseat. This ensures they can safely exit on either side of the vehicle to avoid moving traffic, and it gives the rider and driver some personal space.
The app also has a help section which both drivers and passengers are able to use to communicate any concerns they may have during a trip.
When travelling with a driver-partner, passengers should always be aware of their surroundings and trust their instincts if they feel something isn’t right. Passengers should be cautious when sharing any personal information and should always confirm that the driver-partner is, in fact, the same person displayed on the app.
Passengers are also able to share their trip on the app as well as share their estimated time of arrival with a loved one so they are aware of your location.
How do you ensure you stay safe when travelling? Share your tips with us by emailing laurap@caxton.co.za
