The bustling town of Aylesbury is bracing itself for significant travel disruptions as a crucial thoroughfare into the town is […]
It’s about time! 📱
In an era where customer safety is paramount, Uber has announced an exciting update that promises to enhance the safety of its users, particularly during late-night rides. The new late-night safety features are set to be integrated into the app, providing peace of mind to riders and their loved ones. Let's explore what these features are, how they work, and how you can use them to ensure a safer ride.
Enhanced Rider Safety Features
Real-Time Tracking and Sharing
One of the standout features in this update is the improved real-time tracking and sharing capabilities. Riders can now share their ride details with trusted contacts directly through the app. This includes the driver's information, location, and estimated time of arrival. Loved ones can follow the journey in real-time, ensuring that the rider reaches their destination safely.
Emergency Button
Uber has added an emergency button within the app, providing quick access to emergency services if a rider feels unsafe or encounters an urgent situation. A single tap on this button will connect the rider with local authorities, while also sending trip details and the current location to both Uber’s safety team and the contact selected by the user.
Check-In Features
New check-in features help keep track of rides without needing constant manual checks. If a ride takes longer than expected, or if there’s a significant deviation from the planned route, the app automatically sends a prompt to the rider to confirm everything is alright. If the rider does not respond, Uber’s safety team steps in to investigate.
How to Use These Features
Using Uber's new safety features is straightforward and user-friendly. Here's how you can make the most of them:
Sharing Your Ride
1. Start your trip as usual by booking a ride through the Uber app.
2. Once your trip begins, swipe up on the screen to reveal the "Share Trip Status" option.
3. Select the contacts you want to share your trip with. They will receive a link to a live map showing your trip details.
Activating the Emergency Button
1. Locate the shield icon on the app's main screen after you’ve begun your trip.
2. Tap on the shield icon to enter the Safety Toolkit.
3. You will see the "Emergency Assistance" button. Tap it to initiate the emergency protocol.
Responding to Check-Ins
1. During your trip, you may receive a notification from Uber asking if everything is okay.
2. Simply tap on the notification and select “Yes” if you’re safe.
3. If you do not respond, Uber will take additional steps to ensure your safety, possibly contacting emergency services and sharing your ride details.
Conclusion
Uber's initiative to incorporate late-night safety features into their app is a significant step towards enhancing rider security. By making it easier to share ride details, access emergency services, and monitor trips, the company is prioritising the well-being of its users. Next time you're out late, remember these features and use them to ensure a safe and worry-free ride.