Not much time had passed after the Uber app hit phones all across America, that people all around the country starting using the new driving service. The easy, affordable, and accessible designated driver app made going out more enjoyable without a car to worry about. The app provides safe travel for anyone who might not be able to drive after a long night out with friends and family. This mode of transportation has become especially popular within college communities. However, this simplicity comes complications as well.
The Uber app allows anyone that can pass a background check to become a regular driver, making knowledge about who exactly is driving you almost non-existent. Although the app allows customers to see the license plate, picture, car type, and name of the driver, accidents and even tragedies are still prevalent.
These kinds of tragedies are all too real for a young college student in South Carolina who called for an Uber after a late night out. Only after getting into the vehicle did the young student realize that this was not her called for driver, and her body was found the next day in the woods sixty miles away from where she was last seen.
Situations like these are becoming more frequent with Uber drivers, and even though many know the risks and how to avoid these kinds of situations, accidents will still happen. Until Uber makes signing up to be a driver more difficult and thorough progress, these kinds of situations can still occur at any moment to anyone.
In some cases, it is understandable as to why someone may not have any other choice but to call for an Uber driver. If that situation falls upon you after a long night, be sure to remember a few tips to keep you and everyone with you safe.
First, always ask your questions outside of the vehicle. This is important especially if you are still unsure of whether or not this is your designated driver. Second, make sure your questions are not "yes" or "no" but need specific details. For example, ask your driver what their name is or the name of the person they are supposed to be picking up. Never ask a question that has their name already in it. Third, if you are wanting to avoid an Uber ride altogether, make sure to have a friend's number on file, someone who has already agreed prior to that they would be more than willing to pick you up that night.
These tips and tricks may sound easy enough, but simple tasks are a lot easier said than done when an individual has been under the influence for a period of time. So the next time you go out, have a plan before you pick up your first drink. This plan could change your life more than you could ever know.
