Increasingly popular for transportation and mobility, ride shares are not without risks.
OKLAHOMA CITY – Jan. 15, 2026 – With nearly one-third of Americans using ride share services, safety is more important than ever.
Whether traveling or getting around the city, ride hailing services are a convenient option for many. Thirty percent of all Americans use ride share services, according to a recent Gallup poll. For those aged 18 to 29, use jumps to 45%.
“While hailing a ride share via smartphone app is an increasingly popular way to get around, using the services is not without risks,” said Shawn Steward, public affairs manager for AAA Oklahoma. “Being aware of potential dangers and taking proactive steps to avoid them can help ensure that your ride share experience is not only convenient but safe as well.”
Here are some ways, according to AAA, to stay safe:
Know if you’re covered.
Three types of insurance may apply during your ride: your driver’s, the company’s, and yours:
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Your driver’s: Unless your driver has a commercial policy, your driver’s personal policy is likely rendered null and void once the app is opened—so it won’t protect you as a passenger.
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The company’s: Once your driver accepts your ride request through a company’s app, the company’s insurance kicks in. This usually includes liability coverage as well as uninsured or underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, both of which cover passengers if they are injured in an accident.
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Yours: If you, the passenger, have a personal auto policy, you may also be covered for a portion of medical expenses you incur after an accident. If you have questions, talk to your insurance agent.
Check your driver’s rating. Before you ride, make sure your assigned driver has at least 4.5 out of 5 stars. Scan reviews for negative comments, and if it doesn’t feel right, cancel the trip and hail another driver.
Wait for your ride inside. When possible, stay inside while you summon and wait for your ride. Using your phone outdoors can make you a target for thieves.
Tell someone about your trip. Let someone know you are hailing a ride, and tell them where you’re going. Lyft and Uber contain features that allow you to share your exact route, current location and estimated time of arrival with someone you trust—and they don’t need the app to receive the information.
Confirm your driver before getting in. They say never get in a car with a stranger; that’s also true with ride sharing. Ask for the driver’s name, and ask, “Who are you here for?” Cross-check the license plate with the number on your app before you get in the car.
Buckle up in the back seat. Always sit in the back so you can exit on either side in an emergency, and to put distance between you and the driver. Remember to wear your seatbelt.
Don’t share personal information. Don’t give the driver your phone number or reveal personal information like where you live or work, if possible.
Pay through the app. Never give your driver cash; always use a credit card or debit card stored within the ride share service app to pay for your ride.
Stay vigilant. If you sense trouble, dial 9-1-1. Some ride-hailing apps also include emergency buttons that connect you with 9-1-1. If it’s safe, exit the vehicle quickly and go to the nearest public area. Report all incidents, even attempted crimes, to police.
About AAA
AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 65.2 million members nationwide and more than 450,000 members in Oklahoma. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, membership corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, find local gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit www.AAA.com.
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