TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – The Tallahassee Police Department is issuing a timely warning if you have plans for Friday night or the weekend — urging caution when using a rideshare service.
Just two weeks ago, a rideshare driver allegedly sexually assaulted a Tallahassee woman after picking her up at a bar.
Police say rideshares are a great way to get home, but they emphasize the importance of staying alert and aware of your surroundings.
Sgt. Stephen Stabley with the police department said, “know exactly where you’re going and the routes two and from, you want to make sure that youre with people, try not to be alone if you can.”
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TPD says some of the most common safety issues they see involve intoxicated riders, people not knowing where they’re going and not checking details before getting in the car.
Police say you should always know your destination and confirm it with the driver, along with their name and vehicle make and model. Sgt. Stabley said, “They should be able to give your their name, the vehicle that their in and you should be able to confirm that by either make and model or color or the license plate number.”
They also encourage riding with friends when possible, but if you can’t, Sgt. Stabley said, “If you’re going to be by yourself, be cognizant of your surroundings. Sometimes just hearing what’s going on around you can help alert you to something unusual.”
Police say if someone approaches you and can’t provide the driver’s information, don’t get in the car. Report it to the rideshare app and try another service.
If you ever feel unsafe in a rideshare, police say to call 911 right away.
“If you see any deviation from that ask them politely why are you getting off this street, or why are we turning and if they cant provide with a reasonable answer then say please let me out at a populated, well-lit, safe location,” Sgt. Stabley added.
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