There is no doubt that Ridesharing apps like Uber and Taxify have helped to ease transportation difficulties in major African cities.
However, with reports of attempted abductions, incidents of sexual assault, and violent altercations instigated by drivers becoming increasingly popular, one must take safety measures to help avoid or reduce the chances of such mishaps.
Here are 5 safety tips you should take note of when riding Uber, Taxify, or any other similar taxi services:
Confirm the identity of the driver and ensure the car model/plate number matches what’s on the app
There are so many kidnappers and perverts out there who often pose as Taxify/Uber drivers, so beware! They especially take advantage of women who appear to be in a hurry or drunk, or seem distracted by phone calls. Do not automatically assume that a car that pulls up in front of you is the Uber or Taxify you called. There have been numerous reports about how women waiting for rides just ask whoever they see if they are “Uber” and fraudulent impostors reply in the affirmative. Don’t fall victim. All you need to do is check the app to ensure that the car model and plate number you see in front of you matches what’s on the app. Also, verify the driver’s identity by not only verifying his/her identity via the photo on the app, but by also calling the driver’s phone right before you enter the car. When you hear his/her phone ring and they pick up, you’re good to go.
Share your ETA with friends and family
Share your trip details with family and/or friends so they can keep track of your journey just in case anything goes wrong and they need to track you down. Additionally, send them the driver’s name and phone number. Be sure to also screenshot the display on the app that shows the driver’s photo, car, and car model and send it to your friends via Watsapp. If you wanna be a bit extra (lol), call a friend and tell them you have shared your ETA with them and make sure you talk loud enough so the driver can hear you. So just in case he’s thinking about being shady, he knows you’ve got backup. YEAH! *fist pump*
Try not to fall asleep!
Guurrllll you gotta be aware of your surroundings at all times. Don’t fall asleep! It would be easy for any driver with evil intentions to try to abduct you ‘cos duh, you’re not in a conscious state. Pay attention to the road and the routes the driver is taking. If you really do not know your way to your destination, it doesn’t hurt to turn on Google Maps on your own smartphone and monitor the directions as you go along. So if the driver begins to take a route that deviates from your map, you can say something so he/she is aware that you are actually paying attention.
Avoid Riding in the Front Seat
AJC reports that “passengers (especially women) who ride up front have been on the receiving end of assaults, groping and other aggressive, unwanted behavior.” So yeah ladies, the back seat it is.
Ride in groups when possible
Especially if it’s really late at night, and perhaps you are going to or coming back from a club or social function. Ride with your girls. There is strength in numbers. The driver would probably think twice before thinking of trying any funny business ‘cos he would know that you and your girls would take him out in a heartbeat.
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Got some tips you’d like to share? We’d love to hear in the comments below!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
