Rideshare Driver Safety - How to Protect Yourself
You may wonder: is it safe to be a rideshare driver? Driving and interacting with strangers can be a stressful part of the job for rideshare and cab drivers. Risking personal safety should not be a part of the job. As a rideshare driver, there are several safety rules to help empower yourself and keep you and your working environment safe. Mace® Brand believes in the power of being prepared. Here is some practical advice for rideshare and taxi driver safety.
VERIFY YOUR RIDER
Always confirm the identity of the person about to get into your vehicle. It's ok to roll down your window and ask the person's name before you unlock your door. A straightforward "can you please tell me your name?" is a good approach. If they won't tell you, or what they say doesn't match the name on your rideshare app, you may want to keep driving.
USE A DASHCAM
Dashcams are the eyes and ears of insurance providers and most law enforcement agencies. They are extremely popular with professional drivers, and are a smart choice to help ensure your personal safety. Look for a dashcam with a dual lens, which includes a front and inside view.
KEEP YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION PERSONAL
Everyone likes a professional, friendly driver. However, you should never release specific personal information about yourself such as your address or phone number.
FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES
Always drive safely and follow the rules of the road. Sometimes riders are in a hurry and can be a bit impatient. Rideshare companies provide specific guidelines to help protect your personal safety. Use these as an empowerment tool. For example, you can always explain to a rider that you must abide by the safety guidelines as spelled out by your rideshare agreement.
CONSIDER A PERSONAL SAFETY DEVICE
At MACE®, we provide power and safety through proper preparation, such as our RideShare Safety Kit . The kit includes a can of Pepper Gel, designed for protecting yourself from a threat outside of your vehicle. It also includes a Stun Gun, which emits a powerful electrical charge to protect you from a would-be attacker.
DEVELOP AN EMERGENCY PLAN
As a rideshare driver, do you know what to do in case of an emergency? What if someone enters your vehicle with a weapon or they appear intoxicated or under the influencer? All rideshare apps have features installed to contact the support team and/or authorities with one push of a button. Familiarize yourself with this process, and anything you might add to it, so you don't have to think about what to do if an emergency develops. Your personal safety and the safety of your passengers could depend on it. Mace® Brand believes in we can help increase community and family safety through individual empowerment. Now that you have some safety tips, we wish you happy driving!
Another story you would enjoy: Which Personal Safety Devices are Right for You? (mace.com)
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