Safety Reminders for Maine’s Uber Users

According to WGME, a young woman recently got into a car that she mistook for her Uber ride and was kidnapped and murdered.

Uber is reminding riders to practice safety and practicality when using ride services. Uber screens their drivers, but it's still up to riders to make sure that they are getting into the right car and to check car and driver information on their Uber app.

Things to check before entering an Uber:

• Is it the correct make and model of car?
• Does the license plate number match?
• Check the driver's photo.

Uber and law enforcement came up with more suggestions to keep us safe:

• Wait indoors until your driver has arrived.
• Never get in a car with a driver that claims to be an Uber, always go through the app so that you can verify their identity.
• If you are alone with the driver, sit in the back seat. This gives you personal space and a measure of safety to leave the car on either side and avoid traffic.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
• "share" your Uber info with friends by tapping the share button on the app.
• Listen to your instincts! If you get a vibe that you are in danger, contact 911 immediately.
• Be respectful to both the car and the driver.
• Leave feedback, good or bad.