A Comprehensive Guide to Staying Secure While Using Uber in Mexico City
Uber is a popular ride-hailing service that operates in major cities around the world, including Mexico City. While Uber has taken steps to improve safety for its passengers, concerns remain about the safety of using the service in Mexico City.
Safety Concerns
According to a 2020 report by the Mexican government, there were over 2,000 reported crimes against Uber passengers in Mexico City in 2019. These crimes included robbery, assault, and sexual assault.
Steps Uber Has Taken to Improve Safety
Uber has implemented a number of measures to improve safety for its passengers, including:
- Strict driver screening: All Uber drivers must undergo a background check before being allowed to drive for the service.
- GPS tracking: All Uber rides are tracked by GPS, so that passengers can be located in case of an emergency.
- Emergency button: The Uber app includes an emergency button that passengers can use to contact the police or Uber in case of an emergency.
- Ride sharing: Uber allows passengers to share their rides with other passengers, which can help to improve safety.
Tips for Staying Safe When Using Uber in Mexico City
While Uber has taken steps to improve safety, there are still things that passengers can do to further reduce their risk of becoming a victim of crime. Here are some tips:
- Choose your driver carefully: When you request a ride, pay attention to the driver’s profile picture and rating. Avoid drivers with low ratings or negative reviews.
- Sit in the back seat: This will give you more space and make it less likely that you will be attacked by the driver.
- Lock the doors: As soon as you get in the car, lock the doors. This will help to prevent the driver from kidnapping you.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to where you are going and who is around you. If you feel uncomfortable, ask the driver to stop the car and let you out.
- Share your ride: Let someone know where you are going and who you are driving with. This way, someone will know where to find you if you don’t arrive at your destination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes that passengers make when using Uber in Mexico City:
- Getting into an unmarked car: Only get into cars that have the Uber logo clearly displayed.
- Paying with cash: Uber accepts all major credit cards and debit cards. Do not pay with cash, as this will make you more vulnerable to being robbed.
- Getting into a car with someone other than the driver: Only get into a car with the driver who you requested through the Uber app.
- Leaving your belongings in the car: Always take your belongings with you when you get out of the car.
Conclusion
Uber is a relatively safe way to get around Mexico City, but there are still some risks involved. By following the tips in this article, you can help to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Uber legal in Mexico City?
A: Yes, Uber is legal in Mexico City. The service was legalized in 2018.
Q: How much does Uber cost in Mexico City?
A: Uber fares in Mexico City vary depending on the time of day, the distance of the trip, and the type of car you choose. However, fares are generally affordable.
Q: Can I use Uber to get to the airport?
A: Yes, you can use Uber to get to and from the airport in Mexico City.
Q: Is it safe to use Uber at night?
A: It is generally safe to use Uber at night in Mexico City, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings.
Useful Tables
Table 1: Uber Fares in Mexico City
| Distance | Fare |
|---|---|
| 0-5 km | $50-70 |
| 5-10 km | $70-90 |
| 10-15 km | $90-110 |
| 15-20 km | $110-130 |
Table 2: Uber Driver Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be at least 18 years old |
| License | Must have a valid driver’s license |
| Vehicle | Must have a vehicle that meets Uber’s safety requirements |
| Background check | Must pass a background check |
Table 3: Uber Safety Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| GPS tracking | All Uber rides are tracked by GPS |
| Emergency button | The Uber app includes an emergency button that passengers can use to contact the police or Uber |
| Ride sharing | Uber allows passengers to share their rides with other passengers |
| Driver ratings | Passengers can rate their drivers after each ride |
Table 4: Tips for Staying Safe When Using Uber in Mexico City
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Choose your driver carefully | Pay attention to the driver’s profile picture and rating |
| Sit in the back seat | This will give you more space and make it less likely that you will be attacked by the driver |
| Lock the doors | As soon as you get in the car, lock the doors |
| Be aware of your surroundings | Pay attention to where you are going and who is around you |
| Share your ride | Let someone know where you are going and who you are driving with |
