5 ways to make sure you’re actually getting in your Uber or Lyft

Ride sharing services like Uber and Lyft are becoming more popular across the country for people looking to get out without driving their own vehicles.

But after a 21-year-old University of South Carolina senior was killed last week after getting into a car she likely mistook for an Uber, some are calling into consideration ride sharing service safety..

Here are 5 ways you can make sure your Uber or Lyft driver is actually your ride.

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1. Check the driver’s detail in the ride sharing app

Both ride sharing apps provide specific details about the driver, including name and a photo. When the vehicle assumed to be an Uber or Lyft arrives, ask the driver what their name before getting in and make sure the driver matches the photo.

2. Ask the driver who they’re picking up

The driver should also know the name of the passenger who booked the ride. Ask ride sharing drivers who they are there to pick up. If they don’t say the rider’s name, don’t get in the car. They’re either not an Uber or Lyft driver, or they’re somebody else’s driver.

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3. Follow the car’s location on the map within the app

Both apps will also track where your driver is on a grid, along with estimated arrival time. Watch the map. If the Uber or Lyft app says the ride is 4 minutes away, the approaching vehicle is likely not the Uber or Lyft passengers are looking for.

4. Check the car’s make, model and color with what’s provided in the apps

Ride sharing apps also share information for awaiting passengers about the vehicle. If a vehicle matches the color, make and model of the vehicle passengers are waiting on, double check the license plate number as well before getting in the car.

5. Look for Uber or Lyft stickers in the vehicle’s windows

Not all Uber and Lyft vehicles display stickers, and it’s possible that those that have stickers aren’t actually Uber or Lyft vehicles, but if there’s no sticker in the window, it may mean riders should double check the driver’s identity and car details more closely.

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