Millions of Rides, Real Risks
Rideshare services have transformed transportation. But getting into a stranger's car — often alone, often at night, often in unfamiliar areas — carries inherent risk. High-profile incidents have raised public awareness, but the daily reality is simpler: most rides are fine, some are uncomfortable, and a very small number become dangerous.
Smart riders prepare for the small number without being paranoid about every trip.
Before You Get In
- Verify the car — Match the license plate, car make and model, and driver name before opening the door. Ask "who are you here for?" rather than giving your name first.
- Share your trip — Every rideshare app has a trip-sharing feature that sends your real-time route to a contact. Use it on every ride, not just late-night ones.
- Wait inside — Order the ride from inside a building and walk out when the car arrives. Do not stand on a dark street corner waiting.
- Sit in the back seat, driver side — Maximum distance from the driver. Access to a door that opens to the curb, not traffic.
What to Carry
Your rideshare safety kit should fit in a pocket or purse and be accessible without digging through a bag:
Pepper Spray
A compact keychain pepper spray is the most effective rideshare safety tool. Effective in the confined space of a car (aim directly, use a stream pattern to minimize your own exposure), and creates an immediate opportunity to exit the vehicle. Keep it in your hand or in an easily accessible jacket pocket for the duration of the ride.
Personal Alarm
A personal alarm activated inside a car is extremely disorienting to the driver. The enclosed space amplifies the 120-decibel siren. It also immediately draws attention from people outside the vehicle and nearby traffic. Clip one to your keychain or bag strap.
Defense Keychain
A defense keychain provides a close-quarters option if you need to fight your way out of a vehicle. Cat ear keychains and kubotans are accessible from a fist and effective in tight spaces.
Compact Flashlight
Not just for illumination. A bright flashlight with a strobe mode aimed at a driver's face from the back seat causes immediate disorientation. Also useful for checking the back seat before entering and illuminating poorly lit pickup areas.
During the Ride
- Stay aware — Follow the route on your phone. If the driver deviates significantly, ask why. If the explanation is unsatisfactory, ask to be let out in a public, well-lit area.
- Keep your phone charged and accessible — Your phone is your lifeline for calling 911, sharing your location, and documenting the ride.
- Trust your instincts — If something feels wrong — the driver is making you uncomfortable, locking the doors, taking a route that makes no sense — address it immediately or prepare to exit.
- Do not share personal information — Where you live, where you work, whether you live alone, your daily routine. Keep conversation casual.
Build a Rideshare Safety Kit
Everything fits on a keychain or in a small pocket:
- Keychain pepper spray
- Personal alarm
- Defense keychain
- Compact flashlight
Under $40. A few ounces. Massive improvement in your ability to handle a bad situation. Shop our self-defense collection.