Ridesharing service uses an online platform to connect riders with drivers who use their own vehicles to facilitate transportation needs.

Since this is a growing industry, a big question is can women join this industry or use the services? And how safe it is for women to use such ridesharing services. Undoubtedly, online platforms try their best to ensure safety for drivers and passengers. But there is always a safety concern.

Is it safe for women to be ridesharing drivers?

Ridesharing companies make their platform best to give safety to everyone, and with time, they are also improving it. Many ridesharing companies introduce the emergency button and survivor support hotline in their applications to take safety measures to the next level. However, these features may not work for some time as advertised.

But the thing is, women should have every right to drive with these ridesharing companies. There are almost 21% female drivers in big companies like Uber and Lyft. But you need to face it; there can be danger. But we want to improve things, so female drivers need to take extra precautions. For example, many female drivers don’t like to drive at night, even though the fairs are higher. Because of this, female drivers may earn less than male drivers, but they may compromise when there is a risk to their safety.

Is ridesharing safe for female passengers?

The risk faced by female drivers also applies to female passengers. In a report, it is found that, in cases of ‘’non-consensual penetration,’’ 92% of the victims were female passengers.

So, you must take precautionary tips to ensure a safe trip.

Here are tips female drivers can follow to be safe

• Check rating

Online ridesharing companies have a two-way rating system, which allows the driver to rate the passenger and vice versa. This rating system is the best and most helpful way to guard your safety. Always check the rating before you accept any ride request. Below four-star rating should be a red flag for you.

Remember to give a brief rating; it will help other drivers and passengers.

• Use the gender option on the app effectively. If you are a female driver, it is advisable to pick up a female passenger.

• Take care of your vehicle

It is just for general safety; you should be sure your car is always in good working condition when you ride. It would be dangerous for you and your passenger to break down in the middle of the ride, especially if it happens at night.

So keep your car in excellent condition and stay safe.

• Choose time wisely

It’ll be better if you drive at the safest times of the day. Driving between 9 pm to 5 am is less safe for female drivers. If you need to drive between these times, you should have some plan in [place for what to do if you don’t feel safe.

• Choose area wisely

It also is a good practice if you avoid such areas where you might not feel safe. This area might be the road with all bars or a neighborhood with a known history of crime and violence. Whatever the reason, if you don’t feel safe about being here, it’ll be best if you avoid it.

• Don’t be afraid to cancel

When you arrive to pick up a rider and you feel unsafe at this time, you should cancel the rider. Don’t forget that you can explain why you canceled the ride, which will not affect your rating. And remember, safety is the most important thing to you.

Safety tips for female passengers

• Use the gender option on your app and search for a female driver nearby.
• Don’t go alone. If needed, inform your family or friend and send your ride details.
• Confirm the car and driver details before entering.
• Stay active in your surroundings.
• Cancel the ride if you don’t feel good at the pickup time

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