Rideshare Safety Tips
Ridesharing services offer a convenient and often more affordable alternative to traditional taxis. While most companies have safety measures in place, it’s still important to take precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using a rideshare service.
Call and Wait for Your Driver Inside
- Stay indoors until the app shows your driver has arrived.
- Avoid standing outside alone while distracted by your phone.
Confirm the Driver and Vehicle
- Check the driver’s name, photo, and vehicle make and model in the app.
- Before entering, ask: “Who are you here for?”
Check the Driver’s Rating
- If you're uncomfortable with a driver’s rating, cancel the ride and request another.
- Share your trip with friends or family:
- Uber: Tap "Share status" to send trip details.
- Lyft: Tap the "Send ETA" icon to notify contacts.
- If these features aren't available, take a photo of the license plate and text it to someone you trust.
Ride in the Backseat
- If you're traveling alone, sit in the back to safely exit from either side and maintain personal space.
Protect Your Personal Information
- You do not need to share your phone number or personal contact details with your driver.
Use Your Own Navigation App
- Follow your route using your own maps app to stay aware of your location and any unusual route changes.
Travel with Others When Possible
- There’s safety in numbers. Ride with friends or use carpool features like Uber Pool or Lyft Line when available.
If You Feel Unsafe
- Call 911 immediately.
- If possible, exit the vehicle and go to the nearest public or open business area.
- If danger feels imminent, make noise—yell, blow a whistle, or otherwise draw attention.
- Report all crimes (actual, attempted, or suspected) to the police.
- Program important phone numbers into your phone:
- SFPD Emergency: 415-553-8090
- SFPD Non-Emergency: 415-553-0123
- UCSF Police Emergency: 415-476-6911
- UCSF Police Non-Emergency: 415-476-1414
Help prevent crime by reporting suspicious activity to UCSF Police or the appropriate local agency. For emergencies on-campus, call 9-911 from landlines or 415-476-6911 from a cell phone. For non-emergency calls, dial 415-476-1414.