How to Handle Harassment or Threatening Behavior

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

• Keep Calm: Stay as composed as possible. Avoid reacting in a way that might escalate the situation.

• Assess the Threat: Determine if the passenger's behavior poses an immediate physical danger or if it's verbal harassment that can be de-escalated.

2. Safely End the Ride (If Possible)

• Pull Over in a Safe Location: If you feel threatened or uncomfortable, find a safe, well-lit public area to pull over, such as a gas station or a busy street.

• Politely Ask the Passenger to Exit: Calmly and respectfully ask the passenger to exit the vehicle. Avoid confrontation or aggressive language. Example: “For everyone’s safety, I think it’s best if we end the ride here.”

• Do Not Argue: Avoid engaging in a verbal argument or defending yourself aggressively, as it might escalate the situation.

3. Use the Emergency Button (In-App SOS Feature)

• Activate the Emergency Button: If you feel that the situation is out of control or turning dangerous, immediately use the emergency button in the app. This will notify local authorities or the ride-sharing platform’s safety team.

• Notify Police: Depending on the severity, you can directly call 911 or your local emergency number for immediate assistance, especially if the behavior becomes violent or physically threatening.

4. Record or Document the Incident

• If Safe, Record Audio or Video: If the situation is escalating but not physically dangerous yet, you may choose to use your phone to record the incident. Ensure that recording is allowed in your area.

• Make Mental Notes: If recording is not an option, make mental notes about the passenger’s behavior, physical description, and any threatening language or actions.

5. Report the Passenger Through the App

• End the Ride and File a Report: Once you have safely ended the ride, use the app’s reporting feature to log the incident. Provide specific details, such as:

  • What the passenger did or said

  • Any threats or harassment

  • Location and time of the incident

• Platform Investigation: The platform will usually investigate the report, and if necessary, may ban the passenger from using the service.

6. Contact the Ride-Sharing Platform’s Support

• Safety Hotline: Contact the platform’s driver support or safety team for advice on handling the situation. Some platforms have a 24/7 support line for safety-related incidents.

• Provide Evidence: If you recorded the incident or took notes, provide the ride-sharing company with any relevant evidence to support your report.

7. File a Police Report (If Necessary)

• Serious Threats or Violence: If the passenger physically threatens or assaults you, or if the harassment is severe, file a police report immediately. Include all details of the incident.

• Keep Evidence for Police: Provide the police with any recordings, notes, or details, such as the passenger’s name and phone number (available through the ride-sharing app).

8. Protect Yourself Physically

• Stay in Control of the Vehicle: Keep control of your vehicle. Avoid letting the passenger into your personal space, and do not pull over in isolated or unsafe areas.

• Exit the Vehicle if Necessary: If the situation becomes physically threatening and you're unable to stay safe in the car, exit the vehicle and move to a safe place while waiting for authorities.

9. Avoid Physical Confrontation

• De-escalation: Try to remain non-confrontational. Do not engage physically unless you are defending yourself in a dangerous situation.

• Avoid Retaliation: It’s important not to retaliate, as this could make the situation worse. Your goal should be to stay safe and avoid harm.

10. Take Care of Your Emotional Well-Being

• Rest and Decompress: After a threatening or harassing incident, take a break from driving to recover emotionally. Driving immediately after a stressful situation can increase your risk of accidents or poor decision-making.

• Seek Support: If the incident is particularly distressing, talk to friends, family, or a counselor. Some ride-sharing platforms also offer support resources or access to professional counselors for drivers.

11. Block the Passenger from Future Rides

• Block Feature: Some ride-sharing platforms allow drivers to block a specific passenger from being matched with them again. Make sure to use this feature to avoid future contact with the individual.

12. Know Your Rights

• Refuse Rides in Unsafe Situations: You have the right to refuse a ride or stop a ride at any time if you feel unsafe or threatened. Platforms typically support drivers who prioritize safety.

• Legal Protection: Understand that harassment, threats, or physical assault are illegal, and you can take legal action if necessary.