Benefits and safety tips for Uber and Lyft

Ridesharing is using an online platform to connect passengers with drivers who use their privately owned vehicles to facilitate transportation needs.

• On-demand ride-sharing companies, like Uber and Lyft, require drivers to carry only a standard vehicle operator's license. Taxis require drivers to carry a commercial license.
• With on-demand ridesharing companies, you use an app to complete the entire transaction — you're basically ordering a ride in a privately owned vehicle with your smartphone.
• Both taxis and on-demand services require drivers to complete a background check.

Benefits of rideshare services

• Drivers set their own schedules and can work as much or as little as they want.
• The in-app rating system allows riders to rate drivers, and drivers to rate riders. A series of bad ratings could lead to a driver (or a passenger) being removed from the rideshare service.
• There's no cash in the cars. Since all payment transactions are done through the app, there's no need to exchange cash or credit cards in the car. You can even tip through the ridesharing app.
• You get door-to-door service, which means you don't have the hassle of finding a parking spot or paying for parking. This is great if you're going to a busy event, concert, or high-traffic area.
• You always have a ride home if you've been out on the town. Drinking and driving accounts for 10,000 deaths per year — riding in an Uber or Lyft might help reduce the risk of drunk driving.
• Carpooling options help you go green while you're on-the-go.
• It's an alternative to public transportation.

Ridesharing safety precautions

Is Uber safe? Is Lyft safe? Here are some ridesharing safety precautions to help you sit back and enjoy the ride.

• Share your trip with others. If you don't need to travel alone, consider taking the carpool option. It allows you to ride with others who have a similar destination.
• Keep your personal information confidential.
• Request your ride before you go outside.
• Check the driver's ratings and read the feedback before you confirm a pick up. Cancel the request if you are not comfortable with the driver.
• Know your surroundings. Use the app to follow your driver's progress before they pick you up and while you are en route to your destination.
• Verify the identity of the driver and car before entering the vehicle. The ridesharing app will show you the driver's photo, the vehicle's license plate number, and the make and model of the car.
• Sit in the back seat and wear your seatbelt.
• Consider wearing a face mask during times of a pandemic or when highly contagious illnesses are prevalent.

Remember — it is important to trust your instincts and use your best judgment if you ever feel unsafe.

• If something doesn't feel right, don't get into the vehicle.
• If your personal safety is threatened, call emergency personnel immediately.

Ridesharing isn't only convenient and budget-friendly for riders, it's also a great way for drivers to earn extra money. If you're interested in becoming a driver, it's important to make sure you understand the ins-and-outs of rideshare driver coverage.

Before becoming a driver, check with your State Farm® agent about rideshare coverage options.