The death of University of South Carolina student Samantha Josephson has brought attention to the importance of safety when it comes to using ride share apps like Uber or Lyft.

According to People.com and automotive expert Lauren Fix, there are 8 steps you can take to make sure you put your safety first when using a ride share app.

  1. Match the license plate of the car with the license plate given on the app as soon as the car pulls up.
  2. Ask the driver "Who are you are you waiting for?". Do not ask "Are you my ride?" or "Are you here for _______?".
  3. Look at the photo of your driver on the app and make sure that it matches what your driver looks like in person.
  4. Wait for your ride inside until the app shows that your driver has arrived.
  5. Don't share your phone number or any other personal contact information with your ride share driver.
  6. Do not ride in the front seat. Riding in the back seat ensures that you can safely get out of the vehicle.
  7. Tap the "share status" feature in the app, which shares a driver’s name, photo, license plate and location with a friend.
  8. At the end of your ride be sure to rate your driver.

For an even more detailed break down of the ride share safety tips visit the People website.

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