The Takoma Park Police Department recently shared information regarding rideshare safety following a concerning experience by the department’s public information officer.
Per Takoma Park Police: “We’ve shared this advice before, but it’s worth repeating after our Police Public Information Manager had a concerning experience at an out-of-town conference. When her Uber arrived, she asked the driver, “Who are you here to pick up?” Instead of answering, he demanded her name. She repeated the question, but the driver refused to respond and became irritated, asking why it mattered. As she explained Rideshare Safety, the driver abruptly canceled the ride and sped off. Although the vehicle and tag matched, something still felt off. Always trust your instincts and stay safe.
Five years ago, Samantha Josephson, a 21-year-old senior at the University of South Carolina, tragically lost her life to a fake Uber driver. In her memory, her parents set up the #WhatsMyName Foundation. Rideshare safety matters – remember the SAMI method: Stop (have a plan), Ask (what’s my name?), Match (the make/model/license plate), and Inform (share details with friends/family). #RideshareSafety For more information: http://whatsmyname.org”