Whether stranded in the middle of the night or completely exhausted after a long day or flight, taxis are a source of convenience and sometimes necessary when public transportation isn’t the best option.
Any woman knows that we need to have safety at the forefront of our minds in almost anything we do because the sad reality for women is that we are always going to be perceived as easy targets.
Anytime you enter a taxi or any type of ride-share vehicle it can not only be a frightening experience but in a few cases pose a real danger to the traveler. While most drivers are just normal Kenyans trying to earn a living, the truth is that not all people have their best interests at heart.
Here are all the ways you can ensure a safe taxi ride.
Save Emergency Contacts
It’s best to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Make sure you have a list of trusted family members or close friends saved as emergency contacts on your phone. In case of an emergency, you can press a button and get in touch with them within a few seconds.
Use the safety features on ride-share apps
Most ride-share apps work pretty much the same. You request a cab using an app to take you to your desired destination and the price is already calculated for you. This is extremely helpful for many reasons. One, you know the price outright. But more importantly, you have a digital record of who your driver is both during and after the ride; you have their name, license plate, and a way to report them. Some apps have security functions such as emergency buttons, such as an in-app panic button, the ability to report unsafe drivers, and even the ability to record audio during your ride.
Make sure your ride is legit
The most important taxi-safety tip is double-checking which car you get in. Confirm your driver’s name before you set foot in the car by asking, “What is your name?” and matching it up against the name the app has given you. Since we’ve already talked about how modern taxi apps hold all of your driver’s details, it’s a great idea to mimic this manually when hiring a taxi. Take a good look at the taxi’s license plate before getting in and snap a photo. Before the ride begins check car handles from inside for child-locks. You should be able to open the car door from inside.
Always sit in the back seat
Always sit in the back seat of the taxi, even if your driver insists otherwise. If you’re traveling solo, sitting in the back can prevent unwanted attention or sexual advances. More spaces between you and the driver = less opportunity for inappropriate contact. It also creates two possible exits- you won’t get trapped if the driver pulls up next to another strange car or building.
Never tell you’re alone
Never tell your driver you’re traveling by yourself or you live alone. Always say that you’re meeting your mother/boyfriend/ brother. Insert any name or relationship that you see fit. If the driver had any nefarious intentions, they are less likely to carry them out on someone who has a person waiting on them.
If you’re riding solo as a female, we hope these taxi safety tips will set you up for a hassle-free ride. If you feel uneasy, always trust your gut.
