Ridesharing is not a new phenomenon in Lagos. It is a great and affordable way to get to your location swiftly and efficiently. Ridesharing may seem scary at first but it is a wonderful and affordable way to transport yourself from one location to another. However, if you’ve never done it before it may seem frightening and dangerous. In this article, we’ll be sharing some tips for ridesharing in Lagos to help you enjoy your ride and feel safer.
- Speak to the driver – If you’re feeling uncomfortable, you can call the driver and ask how many people will be in the ride to be sure you’ll be able to handle it. You can also ask if he can pick you first so you sit next to the driver. This can help you feel safer and more secure in your ridesharing adventures.
- Check the Rating – On most ridesharing apps there is a rating system that is viewable by the person ordering the ride. Check the driver’s rating and if you’re not comfortable with the rating you can simply cancel the ride and wait for a new one.
- Confirm the name and license number – Usually, the name of the driver, the colour of the vehicle, and the licence plate number will be present when you order the ride. Ensure that you confirm the driver’s name, licence plate number, and ask them who they are there to pick up. This is a good way to ensure your safety and confirm that you have the right vehicle.
- Share your ride – Most ridesharing platforms have the option of sharing your ride with people via social media platforms. Whoever has the link can also follow your ride and know when you have reached your destination. Perhaps you’re using a ridesharing option very early in the morning or very late at night, this is a great way to ensure other people know your location and can look out for you.
- Riding Alone Vs With People – If you’re on a ride where it’s just you and the driver, you can sit in the passenger’s adjacent to the driver so you have easy access to exit the vehicle. However, as earlier mentioned, if you’re sharing the ride with multiple people and feel unsafe you may opt for the front seat next to the driver.
- Attempt to start a Conversation – One thing to remember is that the other passengers are probably feeling the way you do. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation and you might find out that you have shared interests and more in common than you thought.
- Be Careful with Personal Information – Even though we encourage you to start a conversation, it is important that you do not share your personal or contact information to strangers or people you do not trust. If you’re going to do this, do this at your own discretion and as safely as possible.
- Watch the Map – If you’re going to a location you’ve never been to before, follow the map to ensure the driver is staying enroute and not going through any secret or back roads that you are not familiar with.