This post was originally published on www.statefarm.com
What is rideshare? What does it mean?
Ridesharing is using an online platform to connect passengers with drivers who use their privately owned vehicles to facilitate transportation needs.
- On-demand ridesharing 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 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 reduces the risk of drunk driving.
- Carpooling options help you go green while you’re on-the-go.
- It’s an alternative to public transportation.
Rideshare Safety Precautions
Is Uber safe? Is Lyft safe? Taking a few precautions can help you sit back and enjoy the ride.
- Share your trip with others. If you 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.
- Sit in the back seat and wear your seatbelt.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- If your personal safety is threatened, call emergency personnel immediately.
- If something doesn’t feel right, don’t get into the vehicle.
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.
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