How to Stay Safe When Using a Vehicle for Hire:
- First, know what you’re getting into. Vehicles for hire come in the form of taxi cabs, livery vehicles and ride sharing companies. While each of these types of vehicles for hire offer similar services to customers, it is important to take basic steps to ensure your safety.
- When you book a ride, the app will send a confirmation text to riders with a photo of their driver, the license plate number, and a description of the vehicle, so you know who to look for. When you see the vehicle, check the plate and the car’s make and model. You should also ask your driver their name, to be sure it matches the name you received in your confirmation text.
- When you book a ride using a rideshare app, and you receive a text confirmation that the driver is on the way, you are then able input your destination into the app and share that with anyone via text message. Friends are then able to watch your ride on a map in real-time, using the app.
- Riders should never get into a vehicle for hire that they didn’t request or order. Nor should riders get into a vehicle if any of the information they received in the confirmation text does not match up.
- City of Boston taxi cabs are regulated by the Boston Police Department and all licensed taxi drivers in Boston undergo a thorough background check including fingerprinting. These taxi vehicles are marked with company logos and lettering and will have a numbered medallion permanently affixed to the rear of the taxi. Taking note of your car’s medallion number and driver’s name and Hackney number can help ensure your safety when using a City of Boston licensed taxi.
Remember, the Boston Police Department wants you to get to your destination safely. Know what you’re getting into: Check your app, check the car, and check the driver.
If you have an emergency or there is a crime in progress, dial 9-1-1 immediately.