Late-night rides can be convenient, but they also come with added safety concerns—especially if you’re traveling alone. Whether you’re taking a taxi, an Uber, or a Lyft, it’s important to know what tools and habits can keep you secure throughout the trip. These practical safety tips will help you ride smarter and safer when traveling after dark.
- Verify the Vehicle and Driver Before Entering
Always check the license plate, car make/model, and driver name in your app before getting in. This applies whether you’re using Uber, Lyft, or another ride-hailing service. Never assume the vehicle is yours without confirmation—fraudulent pickups are a growing risk in busy areas.
Learn more about driver verification from Uber’s Safety Guide and the Lyft Safety Center.
- Wait in a Well-Lit, Visible Area
If you’re calling a ride at night, wait somewhere well-lit and preferably with foot traffic or security nearby. Avoid secluded alleys, dark corners, or isolated parking lots where visibility is low. This makes it easier to see your ride approach and avoid being targeted.
- Share Your Ride Status
Both Uber and Lyft offer features that let you share your trip in real-time with friends or family:
- In Uber, tap “Share My Trip” under the ride status screen.
- In Lyft, use “Share Ride Details” from the driver profile view.
Doing this sends a live map of your route, driver info, and estimated arrival time—an extra layer of accountability.
- Sit in the Back Seat
Especially when riding alone, sitting in the back seat gives you more personal space and options to exit quickly if needed. It also helps you maintain better visual contact with the road and the driver’s behavior.
- Trust Your Instincts and End the Ride if Necessary
If something feels off—whether it’s the route, the driver’s behavior, or unexpected stops—trust your gut. You can request to end the ride early, report the incident through the app, or even call 911 directly from the app interface.
Uber’s in-app Emergency Button and Lyft’s “Report a Safety Issue” feature offer direct access to emergency services when needed.
- Use Contactless Payment for Added Safety
Avoid exchanging cash at night by using digital payment options. With Fluz, you can buy Uber gift cards ahead of time and earn cashback on every ride—plus keep your payment contactless and secure. If gift cards aren’t available, you can also use a Fluz virtual debit card through Apple Pay or Google Pay.
