Mark Roman | February 20, 2025 | Uber & Lyft Accidents
There’s no denying the popularity or convenience of rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. Approximately 161 million people used the Uber app at least once a month during the third quarter of 2024 alone. However, concerns about fake Uber drivers may leave you feeling uneasy about using this option when you need a ride.
Uber reports that 99.99% of their trips within the U.S. conclude safely, and that may be true when considering registered personnel. However, unregistered scammers pretending to work for a rideshare company aren’t held accountable by the business and may be hard to track down if an accident should occur.
Learning how to spot a fake rideshare driver will help you keep yourself and your family members safe.
5 Tips For Spotting Fake Uber Drivers
Scammers trick people into getting into a car for a ride. They can commit a variety of crimes, from overcharging and robbery to sexual assault. Without real identification, a victim may have little recourse. Fortunately, you can protect yourself from a Lyft or Uber fake driver by following these tips.
1. The Operator Asks For Cash
With legitimate rideshare apps, all payments and tips are handled through the app. If you get to your Lyft spot and the person mentions that they prefer cash or offers you a discount for cash payment, they may be a scammer. A registered driver will always follow the app’s process. Decline the ride and find a safe location before requesting another ride.
2. The Driver Doesn’t Know Your Name
A real driver should identify you by name before you get into the car. They often ask, “Are you Mary?” or confirm, “Uber for Mary.” A fake might say something similar enough to not alert you, such as, “Are you waiting for a lift?” Always ask the person to confirm your name before getting into a vehicle. If they can’t, decline the ride and report the activity to the ride-share company.
3. The Car And The License Plate Don’t Match
When you request a ride from Uber or Lyft, the app automatically provides you with details about the operator, including the license plate number and the make and model of the car. When the car arrives, check the information to make sure it matches with the actual vehicle. Cancel the ride if any of the information doesn’t align with the app.
4. The Driver Doesn’t End The Ride Within The App
A legitimate operator uses the app to end the ride when you arrive at your destination. Fake Uber drivers may ask for more money or refuse to let a customer leave until they pay in cash. If you encounter this scam, immediately use the 911 button on the rideshare app.
5. The Operator Seems Rushed And Pressures You To Get In The Car
Real rideshare personnel behave like professionals. They want their customers to feel comfortable and give them the time to verify details. If they tell you they’re double-parked or have other customers waiting, don’t enter the car because you feel pressured. Take the time you need to confirm the ride details and feel safe.
Above All, Trust Your Intuition
If you feel uneasy about getting into a rideshare vehicle, don’t do it. If you suspect a driver is under the influence or you fear they may get into an accident, cancel the request and schedule another. Waiting a few minutes for a verified car is a minor inconvenience, but it may be one that saves your life.
Contact the New Port Richey Uber & Lyft Accidents Law Firm of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a Uber and Lyft accidents lawyer in New Port Richey. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 787-2500
