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Double check the ride

The California Women’s Law Center (CWLC) reminds riders of the importance of being vigilant and aware of their surroundings when using services like

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Women’s Law Center urges vigilance

The California Women’s Law Center (CWLC) reminds riders of the importance of being vigilant and aware of their surroundings when using services like Uber and Lyft in California. Recent news reports have called attention to the prevalence of fake rideshare drivers who have been linked to several cases of sexual assault and rape.

CWLC Board member Edie Mermelstein attended the recent sentencing of a serial rapist who raped one of her clients after she got into a car driven by a man she believed was a legitimate driver. Nicholas Morales, a fake rideshare driver in Los Angeles, has been convicted of abducting and sexually assaulting seven women. Four of the women he raped gave impact statements to the court, which aided Judge Moses in imposing a sentence of 310 consecutive years in state prison.

Rideshare drivers who are legitimately affiliated with a known rideshare company can generally be trusted. Unfortunately, those seeking to deceive or harm others pose a serious threat to unsuspecting passengers, so it is important that riders take precautions to protect themselves. To avoid becoming a victim, follow these safety tips:

•  Request rides only through the official Lyft or Uber app. Never accept rides from drivers who approach you in person, even if they claim to be your ride.

•  Verify the car and driver details before getting into the vehicle. Check the make, model, and license plate of the car, as well as the driver’s photo and name on the app.

•  Always sit in the back seat of the car, and keep your phone in your hand. This will allow you to quickly call for help if necessary.

•  Share your ride details with a friend or family member. Use the app’s feature to share your ride status and estimated arrival time with someone you trust.

•  Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, cancel the ride and report any suspicious behavior to the rideshare company and the authorities.

In support of the brave women who came forward to report their sexual assaults in this case — and the many survivors like them — CWLC encourages readers to stay vigilant while using rideshare services and share this important message with friends and family who use these services.

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