With just one smartphone on hand, all of us can book a ride with Grab or Uber to travel to our desired destination. Since ride-hailing applications, Uber and Grab have both launched in Malaysia and slowly expanded to other states, it has brought a whole lot of convenience especially to those who doesn’t have a car or for people who simply hates getting behind the wheels. Nonetheless, we always have to be alert with our surroundings since we’re hitching a ride with unknown strangers.
So here are a few things which we should always pay close attention to whenever we’re about to get on to a ride:
#1 Car plate number
Source: http://www.thegreenmechanics.com/2012/05/www-1-most-expensive-car-number-yet.html
This is the most important thing before you enter the car. Some people will only make sure the car model and colour are correct. However, to be safe, do make sure the car plate number of the car is matched with the one showing in your app.
#2 Make sure the tinted layer of the car’s windows are not too dark
Source: http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1819998
Grab and Uber drivers are not allowed to use dark, tinted windows as they are illegal in Malaysia. So, do take note and be extra careful if the car you enter has a dark tint. Logically speaking, people will not be able to find out what’s going on inside the car so if something goes sour.
#3 Make sure the driver’s picture which appears on the app looks like the actual driver who shows up at your doorstep
Source: http://www.hardwarezone.com.ph/tech-news-grab-rolls-out-app-emergency-button
When your ride has been confirmed, pay close attention to the picture and name of the driver. If your hunch tells you to ditch the ride, feel free to cancel it and book another one. Next, do make sure that the driver’s picture which appears in the app is similar to the actual driver. I’ve encountered once that the driver picture is a lady, but the driver who shows up is a guy. The verdict? He told me that he was replacing his sister. Although it is illegal to do so, but some of them still go against the T&C.
#4 Make sure there’s only one person in the car (i.e the driver)
Source: https://www.grab.com/my/safety/
Unless you’ve ordered Grab Share, there’s not supposed to be anyone else in the car except for the driver. So, do not take this matter lightly and file a report against the driver.
#5 Do not fall asleep
Man sleeping in back of car. (A.B./Getty Images)
Source: http://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/the-dangers-of-drunk-parking/
Falling asleep or having low awareness on a public transportation especially when you’re travelling alone is a very dangerous thing to do. Be vigilant and be aware of what is happening inside and outside of the car. If you are with your friend, either of you must take note about your surroundings especially when you don’t have a male companion with you.
#6 Check the app to make sure the route is correct
After getting into your ride, always check the route on the app screen to ensure that the driver is using the right route to your destination. If you have any special request like using the route you prefer, skip toll, or avoid jam, you can always tell the driver. This can avoid any potential miscommunication and unnecessary disputes.
#7 Check the price in your app before you pay
Source: https://itunes.apple.com/in/app/grab-ride-hailing-app/id647268330?mt=8
At last, when you have reached your destination, don’t forget to check your app to make sure the price shown on screen tallies with the amount informed by the driver. Unless, you have pass by toll during your route.
Remember, safety is the best policy. Stay vigilant at all times and be mindful with your surrounding at all times. Have fun riding!
Featured image source from here.
