How To Stay Safe Using Ride-Hailing Apps: 15 Tips Every South African Should Know

Ride-hailing apps have changed the way many South Africans travel.

Whether you’re heading to work, catching a flight, meeting friends for dinner or getting home after a night out, services like Uber and Bolt offer convenience at the tap of a button.

But while ride-hailing can be a safe and reliable way to get around, it’s still important to take precautions. Just as you would remain aware when using public transport or traditional taxis, a few simple habits can help reduce risks and make your journey safer.

Here are practical safety tips every ride-hailing user should know.

Why Ride-Hailing Safety Matters

Most trips happen without incident, but safety experts consistently recommend verifying driver details, sharing trip information and staying alert throughout your journey.

The good news is that many safety measures take only a few seconds and can significantly improve your peace of mind.

1. Verify the Vehicle Before Getting In

One of the most important safety steps is checking that the vehicle matches the information shown in the app.

Before entering:

• Check the licence plate number.
• Confirm the make and model of the vehicle.
• Verify the driver’s name and profile photo.

If anything doesn’t match, do not get into the vehicle.

2. Ask the Driver Who They Are Collecting

Instead of asking:

“Are you here for Sarah?”

Ask:

“Who are you collecting?”

This allows the driver to identify you rather than accidentally confirming incorrect information.

3. Share Your Trip With Someone You Trust

Most ride-hailing apps include trip-sharing features.

Share your trip details with:

• A partner
• Friend
• Family member
• Colleague

This allows someone else to track your journey in real time.

4. Sit in the Back Seat

Many personal safety experts recommend sitting in the rear passenger seat.

This position:

• Provides more personal space
• Gives easier access to exits
• Creates distance between passenger and driver

5. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels wrong before or during a trip, take it seriously.

You are never obligated to continue a journey that makes you uncomfortable.

6. Double-Check Your Destination

Before the ride starts, confirm that the destination entered into the app is correct.

Mistakes can happen, particularly if you’re booking in a hurry.

7. Avoid Sharing Personal Information

Friendly conversation is common during rides, but avoid sharing:

• Your home address beyond what is necessary
• Travel plans
• Financial information
• Personal security details

Keep conversations comfortable but cautious.

8. Track the Route

Most apps display the route in real time.

Pay attention to:

• Unexpected detours
• Major route deviations
• Unexplained stops

If the driver takes a different route, ask politely for clarification.

9. Keep Your Phone Charged

A dead phone can make it difficult to:

• Contact someone
• Access emergency services
• Share your trip
• Navigate independently

If possible, travel with sufficient battery life or a power bank.

10. Be Careful When Travelling Late at Night

Night-time trips often require additional awareness.

Consider:

• Booking from well-lit areas
• Waiting indoors until the driver arrives
• Sharing your trip details before departure

11. Use In-App Safety Features

Many ride-hailing platforms now include safety tools such as:

• Emergency assistance buttons
• Ride verification features
• Audio recording options in some regions
• Real-time location sharing

Take a few minutes to familiarise yourself with the safety features available in your preferred app.

12. Avoid Getting Into a Different Vehicle

If a driver asks you to enter another vehicle not listed in the app, decline and contact support through the platform.

The vehicle information shown in the app should always match the vehicle collecting you.

13. Stay Alert During the Ride

While it’s tempting to become distracted by social media or headphones, remaining aware of your surroundings can help you identify issues quickly.

14. Check the Child Lock if Necessary

If travelling alone, especially at night, some passengers prefer to quickly confirm that rear doors can be opened normally.

While incidents are rare, this extra step can provide reassurance.

15. Report Any Concerns

If something unusual happens during a trip, report it through the app.

This may include:

• Unsafe driving
• Inappropriate behaviour
• Route concerns
• Vehicle issues

Reports help platforms investigate incidents and improve safety standards.

Additional Tips for Parents

If teenagers or young adults use ride-hailing services:

• Encourage them to verify vehicle details.
• Teach them to share trips with family members.
• Discuss what to do if they ever feel unsafe.
• Ensure they know how to use emergency features.

Common Mistakes People Make

Some of the most common ride-hailing safety mistakes include:

• Getting into a vehicle without checking details.
• Booking rides with a low phone battery.
• Failing to share trip information.
• Becoming overly distracted during the journey.
• Ignoring instincts when something feels off.

Fortunately, these are easy habits to improve.

Ride-hailing apps have made transportation more convenient than ever, but convenience should always be paired with awareness.

Taking a few moments to verify your driver, share your trip, monitor your route and stay alert can make a significant difference to your safety.

The goal isn’t to be fearful. It’s to be prepared.

A little caution goes a long way toward ensuring every trip ends exactly where it should: safely at your destination.