Essential Steps Before Getting in the Car

Rideshare has become a staple of everyday life, offering a convenient transportation option and a safe alternative to drinking and driving. However, vigilance is crucial. As Phoenix car accident lawyers at Phillips Law Group often see, taking just 10 seconds to verify your ride can prevent dangerous situations.

“When you’re approaching the vehicle, don’t say, ‘Are you my driver?'” advises Olivia Lemorrocco, legal and safety expert with Phillips Law Group. “You want to make sure the license plate is right, that that driver is saying your name first.”

Late-Night Rideshare Safety Protocols

Taking a rideshare during early morning hours or late at night presents unique vulnerabilities. To protect yourself during these times, implement these three non-negotiable safety protocols:

1. Share Your Ride Status: Use the app’s built-in feature to share your live location and ETA with a friend or family member.
2. Document the Details: Take a screenshot of the driver’s profile, license plate, and vehicle make/model so you have a permanent record on your phone.
3. Control Your Environment: Always sit in the back seat. Ensure the driver is not adjusting their rearview mirror to watch you, and remain fully aware of your surroundings throughout the trip.

“Do not be polite. Your safety is the priority. So many people want to be polite, but you know, if something feels off, get out of there. Ask them to pull over.”

— Olivia Lemorrocco, Phillips Law Group

Advice for Parents and Teenagers

Young adults and teenagers face specific risks when using rideshare services, often because they are distracted. When waiting for a ride, it is critical to stay alert rather than burying your face in a phone.

Lemorrocco recommends a proactive approach once inside the vehicle: “I always call and say, ‘Dad, I’m on my way home. Are you going to be there?’ So that that driver knows somebody is watching out for you and expecting you.”