Getting around in a car is much easier when you don’t have to drive. However, not everyone has someone who’s ready to be their chauffeur for the day. That’s where taxis and rideshare apps like Uber come into the picture. On a day when you have to get to the airport or attend a high-profile meeting across town, it’s best not to stress yourself out with the long commute.
While taxis were more commonly used in the past, ridesharing apps are arguably more popular now. So, the question is, is taking an Uber safer than taking a taxi? This article will talk about the pros and cons of using Uber vs. hailing a taxi.
Uber
Uber was founded in 2009 and has since expanded its services across the globe. The company makes over a billion dollars in profit every year and is widely used by people due to its convenience. People can hire an Uber from anywhere in the city, at any time of day (or night). This makes it a very enticing service to use.
Uber offers live tracking for riders, which they can share with their family or friends. This helps people keep track of their rides the whole time, reducing safety risks. Uber also provides a safety feature that lets riders call 911. There have been a spate of sexual assault cases filed against the company in the past, and Uber has taken some measures to improve the safety of its users.
In order to drive for Uber, drivers have to undergo a screening process, where they have to submit some proof of identity and undergo periodic checks to verify their identity.
Taxis
Taxis have been around long before Uber was invented, and while they took a hit after the popularity of ridesharing apps soared, they’re still around. So, what advantages do they give riders? Taxi companies have been heavily regulated, requiring regular maintenance and strict checks for their drivers. This ensures that cars are well-maintained, reducing the risk of accidents and that drivers are properly qualified to drive.
Licenses or taxi guild memberships often require several years of experience, and drivers are expected to know the routes in their city inside out. However, the downside of hiring a taxi is that there is no live tracking available, nor is it possible to hire a taxi using an app. This makes them somewhat riskier and harder to use.
Legal Consequences of Accidents
The law can get complicated around ridesharing accidents, as there are multiple parties involved — the ridesharing company, the driver, the passenger, and the other driver(s) in the accident. Depending on the course of events, the driver may be held responsible, and in rare cases, the passenger can be partially held responsible for the accident.
It’s important to consult a lawyer if you find yourself in an accident while riding in a cab or an Uber because you may be liable for compensation. A lawyer will help you sort through the legal complexities and determine who can be held liable for the accident, which is why their assistance is crucial.
With taxi companies, the rules are similar, and the company can be held liable for poor maintenance or faulty hiring practices.
How to Stay Safe
It’s important for riders to stay alert while using taxi or ridesharing services, as there is a risk of being robbed, assaulted, or worse. If you’re using a ridesharing service, make sure that the details on the app match what you see in person. If at any point during the ride, you find anything suspicious, ask the driver to pull over.
Avoid sharing personal details with the driver and always get into the back seat. Make sure you have a good view of the driver and pay attention to the route. If the driver appears intoxicated, it’s best to get off and report them to the police and their employers.
