HomeFeaturesThe Benefits of Ridesharing: Demystifying Common Concerns

The Benefits of Ridesharing: Demystifying Common Concerns

This Ridesharing article is sponsored by Lyft.

We all know the frustration of rushing to catch a bus only to miss it by seconds, or spending an hour waiting for a cab that just never comes. It’s a helpless feeling, especially for those on a time-sensitive schedule. It’s a common complaint among commuters and travelers alike, without a sufficient alternative, until the emergence of ridesharing.

With the number of ridesharing services in our area growing, many people are praising their convenience and dependability; they not only provide a countdown to your pick up, but also include driver info for accountability to the process.


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Need a Lyft?

Now, rather than calling a cab and waiting around or trying to hectically coordinate public transportation schedules with your own, catching a ride has become seemingly effortless. If you can download an app and hit just a few buttons on your phone, your ride is on its way.

But as with any example of technology breeding innovation, there have been many concerns regarding this new method of transportation. Understandably, the most common factor brought into question is the safety of these services.

The idea of getting into a stranger’s personal car isn’t something that sits well with many people; especially those that are already skeptical of the trustworthiness of phone apps to begin with. It’s one of those things that does, and should, send off warning bells in your head. That’s why we spoke to Lyft’s General Manager of NJ, Ann Ferracane, to get the facts about common ridesharing concerns; and better understand just how safe we are when we step into a Lyft driver’s car.

Check, Check One

In regards to the background check process that driver’s must pass in order to qualify for a job at Lyft, Ferracane explains, “People who apply to drive on the Lyft platform undergo rigorous screenings including criminal background and driving-record checks (including queries of local, state and federal databases), and social security traces.”

To supplement this process, Lyft also protects drivers and riders by providing, “primary liability insurance with a $1.5 million limit from the time a driver accepts a ride to the time the passenger is dropped off.” This policy was confirmed by Governer Christie’s recently passed legislation.

Not only is physical safety a concern, but prospective users have also voiced their worry over the privacy of the personal information that is necessary to register for and operate the app. Ferracane states that, “Lyft takes the protection of users’ personal information very seriously.” Their privacy guidelines include measures such as storing only partial credit card information on their servers and providing communication channels between riders and drivers without sharing actual contact information.

Ridesharing for a Cause

Safety First

Ferracane adds that, “We designed safety into every part of Lyft; from in-app photos of the driver and vehicle to an around-the-clock Trust and Safety team. And the technology behind the Lyft platform – for example you can share your ETA so your family or friends will know exactly where you are and when you’ll arrive, and provide immediate feedback on your experience – allows us to focus on safety during every step of the way.”

The convenience of ridesharing services is not in question. This is something that anyone with experience using one can attest to; especially at odd hours or when there isn’t any time to wait for a train or traditional cab company. Of course, it’s impossible to account for everything that may happen when using any mode of transportation; but it’s clear that the safety of both the drivers and riders is a top priority for Lyft. These apps have revolutionized the way we travel, and are definitely an option to consider; in particular, for those who often find themselves depending on inconsistent modes of transportation to get around.


Top (Hero) Photo: © ldprod / Adobe Stock
Additional Images (in Order) Courtesy:
Carly Weaver / Best of NJ

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