Uber Enhances Women Rider Preference for Safer Travel
Uber is expanding its women rider preference feature to help women feel safer while using the platform. Originally launched in 2019 in select markets, this feature allows female riders to request female drivers through the app. As safety remains a top concern, especially for women using ride-hailing services, Uber’s latest update makes it easier to choose a woman driver in real-time or ahead of time. The option is now rolling out more broadly in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit, with further global expansion expected.
How Women Rider Preference Works on Uber
When opening the Uber app, women will now see an option to request a female driver directly. Whether they're booking a ride immediately or scheduling it in advance, they can indicate their women rider preference under settings. Although wait times may increase due to the smaller number of female drivers, this feature offers added peace of mind. Riders who prioritize safety over speed can opt in, while those in a rush can still book the quickest available ride regardless of driver gender.
Benefits for Both Female Riders and Drivers
This isn't just a win for passengers. Female Uber drivers can also set preferences to accept ride requests exclusively from other women—particularly helpful during nighttime or busy periods when safety concerns are heightened. Drivers can toggle the feature on or off at any time, maintaining flexibility. Uber says these tools are built on feedback from real users and have been tailored in markets like France and Germany to ensure reliability and effectiveness.
Ensuring Trust and Safety Through Verification
To support this initiative, Uber requires both drivers and riders to verify their identities before trips begin. If a rider or driver expects a woman and a man arrives instead, they’re urged to cancel and report the incident immediately. This system, combined with the expanded women rider preference feature, reflects Uber’s commitment to fostering safer travel experiences. After testing the feature in over 40 countries, Uber now aims to make gender-based ride preferences a reliable safety standard across its platform.
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