SAN FRANCISCO—San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón launched a public education campaign, “Rideshare with Care,” to enhance public safety for rideshare passengers on Tuesday, September 11. The San Francisco Police Department and Uber Technologies, Inc. participated in the announcement. Rideshare with Care provides a step-by-step approach for passengers to utilize to ensure their safety while using rideshare services.
“Rideshare companies offer a convenient service,” said District Attorney George Gascón. “These services generally operate effectively, but they can be manipulated to attract unsuspecting victims. Together, we can take steps to create a safer experience for a service so many rely on.”
According to a press release from the SFDA’s Office, in San Francisco, more than 170,000 rideshare trips transpire on a typical workday. As of late, there have been incidents locally, statewide, and nationally where riders have been attacked by individuals utilizing the services to commit crimes. People posing as rideshare drivers wait for passengers to emerge from restaurants, bars, and other nightlife establishments. As the fake driver approaches, the unsuspecting passenger enters the vehicle before being taken to a remote location.
The San Francisco District Attorney’s Office, working with the SFPD, and Uber are working to create a safer rideshare experience. Riders are encouraged to adopt a step-by-step approach when they use rideshare services. These steps include:
-Verify the license plate number, color, make, and model of the car to your rideshare app
-Confirm your driver’s name before you provide your name. Make sure your driver matches the picture on your rideshare app.
-Share your location and destination with a friend, family member, or someone you trust.
Passengers are urged to contact 911 immediately if a crime transpires during a rideshare trip. They are also informed to report the driver to the rideshare company he or she works for, and contact the local police station. The SFDA’s Victim Services Division hotline can be used as a resource.
