Since its launch in 2009, Uber has transformed how people get from point A to B. It’s convenient, widely available, and often more affordable than traditional taxis. But alongside its rapid growth has been an equally fast-growing concern: is it actually safe?
For all the background checks, app features, and safety updates Uber has rolled out, many riders and drivers still share stories that make you pause before booking or accepting a ride. So, how safe is Uber in 2025? And what should both riders and drivers be doing to protect themselves?
Let’s dive into the facts, concerns, and practical tips that can help everyone navigate the rideshare world more confidently.
The Real Risks of Ridesharing
While the majority of Uber trips are uneventful and safe, the reality is that risks do exist. Uber’s own U.S. Safety Report (the last of which covered 2019–2020) revealed thousands of reported assaults over a two-year span. While that’s a small fraction of total rides given, it’s not a statistic to ignore—especially for women and LGBTQ+ riders, who often report feeling vulnerable.
On the flip side, drivers face real dangers, too. From unruly passengers to attempted robberies, many drivers are increasingly investing in dashcams and taking defensive precautions. Uber’s gig model offers freedom, but it also lacks the physical protections that come with traditional employment settings.
The issue isn’t necessarily Uber alone. It’s that personal safety in gig work and ridesharing still hasn’t caught up to the scale and speed of the technology driving it.
What Uber Is Doing to Improve Safety
To its credit, Uber has taken visible steps to make its platform safer over the years. Some of the most impactful updates include:
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In-app safety features like the “panic” button that allows riders or drivers to call emergency services discreetly
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Background checks for drivers that are periodically re-run
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GPS tracking on every ride, giving both the rider and their trusted contacts real-time visibility
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Anonymous phone number masking so drivers and riders don’t exchange personal contact info
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Driver and rider ratings, which can help flag problematic behavior
In 2022, Uber also introduced audio recording, a feature that allows riders and drivers to record conversations during rides if they feel uncomfortable. The recordings are encrypted and only accessible if a safety issue is reported.
But even with these tools, both parties still bear a lot of responsibility for their own safety, and it’s important to know how to use the app wisely.
Tips Every Rider Should Know
If you’re a frequent Uber rider, staying safe requires more than just trusting the app. Here’s how to ride smarter:
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Double-check the license plate and driver name before getting in. Don’t assume every car that pulls up is your Uber.
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Sit in the back seat, especially if you’re alone. It gives you more personal space and options if you feel uncomfortable.
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Share your trip status with a friend or family member using the app’s “Share My Trip” feature.
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Avoid oversharing personal details with your driver. Politeness doesn’t have to mean vulnerability.
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Trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t get in the car. Cancel the trip and report the issue to Uber.
Safety Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought for Drivers Either
Drivers face their own unique safety challenges, and often without the same level of public attention. Here’s how many seasoned drivers stay protected:
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Use a dashcam. Not only does it provide evidence in case of disputes, it can deter bad behavior.
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Set boundaries. Some drivers refuse to accept certain trips (like late-night pickups in isolated areas) if they don’t feel safe.
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Keep your windows and doors locked when waiting for a rider to approach.
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End the ride if needed. Drivers can cancel trips if they feel unsafe or disrespected—don’t wait for things to escalate.
Drivers should also regularly review Uber’s safety policies so they know what support is available in case of a problem. Uber’s 24/7 Safety Line is one such tool, but many drivers report mixed experiences depending on the issue.
The Role of Public Perception
Public opinion plays a big role in the Uber safety conversation. For many, the fear is shaped less by personal experience and more by viral stories and headlines. While these reports highlight real and important issues, they can also create a sense of fear disproportionate to the risk.
Still, safety isn’t about statistics. It’s about how you feel. And that feeling of vulnerability, especially for women, BIPOC, and queer passengers, deserves to be addressed with more than just PR statements and occasional app updates.
What would really help? Better safety training for drivers. Faster and more transparent incident handling. And a deeper cultural shift that treats gig workers as professionals, not just people passing the time between jobs.
Is Uber Safer Than Taxis or Public Transit?
It depends on what you’re comparing. In urban areas, Uber may feel safer than walking or waiting at a bus stop late at night. In other situations, traditional taxis, especially those run by regulated fleets, might offer more accountability. Public transit, while more regulated, comes with its own risks.
What Uber offers is convenience and traceability. The digital trail makes it easier to report issues, but only if the user knows how to use the tools. That’s why education and awareness are just as important as technology when it comes to safety.
Awareness Is Your Best Asset
Uber has evolved since its early days, but so have the concerns surrounding it. Safety is no longer just about background checks or panic buttons. It’s about creating a culture where riders and drivers feel empowered, respected, and supported.
No app can eliminate risk completely. However, when used wisely, Uber can still be a safe and effective transportation option. The key is to stay aware, trust your gut, and advocate for better standards on both sides of the app.
Have you ever felt unsafe during an Uber ride or as a driver? What do you think Uber could do better to protect both sides of the ride?
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