Tips when getting into taxis or transportation applications to be safer

Today many people use taxis or transport applications to go to work, return home, go out at night or get around the city. And although many times everything works well, it never hurts to take certain precautions.

Personal security also lies in small habits. Reviewing a few details before getting on, staying alert during the ride and knowing what to do if something bothers you can make a big difference.

Here we share some practical tips to move more calmly.

1. Always check that the car and the driver match

Before getting on, verify that the license plate, car model and driver's name are the same as those that appear in the application. If something doesn't match, don't upload.

It's also a good idea to ask the driver's name or have him confirm your name before you get in, rather than saying it yourself first.

2. Wait for the car in a visible place

Avoid waiting on dark, lonely or streets with little traffic. Whenever you can, locate yourself in a well-lit place with people nearby.

This not only helps you feel safer, but also makes it easier to identify the vehicle correctly.

3. Share your trip with someone you trust

Many applications allow you to share the journey in real time. Activate that option and send it to a family member, friend, partner or trusted person.

If you go by traditional taxi and do not have that function, you can send a photo of the license plate or share your location in real time from your cell phone.

4. Sit in the back seat

Getting in the back gives you more personal space, greater ability to react and a safer distance from the driver. Ideally, sit on the side opposite the driver.

In addition, from there you can better observe the route and have access to both side doors.

5. Keep your cell phone with battery and quick access

Before leaving, check that your cell phone has enough charge. If you can, bring an external battery.

It is also advisable to have your emergency contacts on hand, the location activated and a quick alert tool ready to use if you need help.

6. Don't lose sight of the route

Even if you don't always know the entire route, you can look at the map on your phone to make sure the route is reasonable.

If you notice strange detours, unnecessary turns, or that the driver takes a route that makes you uncomfortable, ask them immediately and let someone know.

7. Trust your intuition

If something makes you noise, don't minimize it. If the driver changes his attitude too much, asks invasive questions, insists on talking about uncomfortable topics, or you feel that something is not right, take action.

You can ask to be dropped off in a busy place, call someone at that time, or let them know that they are waiting for your arrival.

8. Avoid showing personal information

It is not necessary to tell where exactly you live, if you are alone or what your routine is. The less personal information you share with strangers, the better.

If they ask you uncomfortable questions, you can answer generally or simply say that you prefer not to talk.

9. Have a plan if something bothers you

Thinking about this beforehand helps a lot. For example:

• call someone and speak loudly

• share location at that time

• ask to get off at a gas station, pharmacy or place with people

• use a quick alert tool if you have one

It's not about living in fear, but about being prepared.

10. When you get off, check your surroundings

Before closing the door, look around you. If you arrived in a poorly lit or alone place, wait a few seconds inside the car to make sure you can enter safely.

Also avoid staying outside for a long time checking your cell phone or looking for keys.

Safety is also about being prepared

Taking a taxi or using a transportation app should be simple. And although we cannot control everything, we can incorporate habits that help us move more safely.

Being attentive does not mean living scared. It means giving yourself tools, trusting your signals and prioritizing your well-being.

At ALARA we believe that security should accompany you in your daily life, in a simple, discreet way and always at hand.