Uber & Lyft Safety Tips for Women

Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, have made it easier for people to travel, whether it is going to work, meeting up with friends, or heading home after a night out. But for many women, stepping into a stranger’s vehicle may feel intimidating. Personal safety, especially during late hours or in unfamiliar areas, can be a valid concern. While most trips are safe, it is important for women to remain cautious to protect themselves against potential harm. 

How Safe Are Uber and Lyft Services for a Female Passenger?

Uber and Lyft have both had their fair share of negative exposure when it comes to reports of sexual assault.

According to Uber’s most recent safety report, a total of 2,717 incidents occurred between 2021 and 2022, with it being the most serious categories of sexual assault and misconduct. Thirty-one percent of cases were reported against riders and 68 percent against rideshare drivers. 

Lyft also released data covering sexual assault cases, specifically between 2020 to 2022. The company reported a total of 2,651 instances of the most serious categories. 

Although both of these rideshare companies did not indicate the gender of the victims, statistics provided by expert health organizations support the claim that women are the most affected individuals of sexual assault:

• National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): 81 percent of women in the United States experienced some form of sexual harrassment and/or assault in their lifetime. 
• Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): Women ages 16 to 19 are more likely than the general population to be victims of sexual assault. 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Over half of women experience sexual violence involving physical contact throughout their lives.

Even though Uber and Lyft have established safety guidelines to reduce the likelihood of sexual assault, it is not entirely effective as cases continue to occur. 

Is Uber or Lyft Safer for Female Riders?

It is difficult to claim that Uber or Lyft are safer for female riders. Both companies have reported sexual assault cases, and individual experiences will differ from one another. There are some factors to consider before using either service.

This includes the following:

• Lyft’s Women+ Connect: Women and nonbinary drivers can provide rideshare services solely to other women and nonbinary riders. How often you match will depend on the proximity of the other drivers and the number of ride requests from women and nonbinary people at that given time. 
• Uber’s Women Rider Preference: Uber or Lyft drivers who identify as women or nonbinary to can choose to only pick up women users. However, keep in mind, the rideshare company does not guarantee that you will be matched with one once requested. If you believe the user is male, you can cancel without getting charged. 
• Uber and Lyft Safety Features: Both rideshare companies have established safety guidelines to make trips comfortable for all users. This includes GPS tracking (if something happens during a trip), Share My Trip (showing where you are in real time to friends and family), and emergency help (giving riders access to contact 911 through the app). 

Should I Sit in Front or Back of Uber/Lyft?

As a woman user in an Uber or Lyft, it is generally recommended to sit in the back. This will give you your own personal space, allowing you to exit out of either side of the vehicle when necessary. The backseat is usually considered the safest and most comfortable option, especially for solo riders.  

Safety Tips for Women Riders

1. Wait indoors or in a visibly clear area for an Uber or Lyft.
2. Be sure to verify the rideshare driver’s name, photo, and license plate before entering the vehicle. 
3. Sit in the back seat to give yourself distance and an easy exit, if needed. 
4. Share your trip with friends and family. 
5. Remain alert of your surroundings at all times.
6. If you believe your safety is at risk due to dangerous activity, you can use the emergency feature in the Uber or Lyft app for quick 911 access.
7. If you were unsatisfied with the services you received, you can share your experience through the rating system to ensure you do not get paired with the same driver again in the future. 

West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here to Help

If you were involved in a rideshare accident as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, West Coast Trial Lawyers will help establish fault, whether it was the driver or a third-party. We will gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and maintain communication with the insurance companies to seek damages on your behalf. 

To book a FREE case evaluation, you can reach out to our 24/7 legal team by calling (213) 927-3700 or completing our easy online contact form.