Popular ride-hailing company, Uber has introduced two new features on its app, an emergency button feature, and an audio recording capability.
This move is aimed at prioritizing the well-being of both drivers and riders during trips.
The emergency button feature allows users to seek immediate assistance in case of incidents such as accidents, health emergencies, damaged property, or phone snatching.
Uber has partnered with Nigerian technology company, Sety to provide swift emergency response services.
Sety dispatches trained professionals to address the situation promptly, ensuring the safety and well-being of those involved.
Uber’s Country Manager, Tope Akinwumi, highlighted the importance of these safety measures, emphasizing the need to address security concerns prevalent in Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry.
The partnership with Sety enables Uber to offer quick response times and expert assistance to users in distress.
In addition to the emergency button, Uber has also introduced an audio recording feature.
This feature allows both riders and drivers to record ongoing trips, serving as evidence in the event of any untoward incidents or disputes.
It provides a means for users to report any unruly behavior or violations of Uber’s community guidelines, ensuring a safer and more accountable environment.
Tope Akinwumi further emphasized that privacy rules and regulations have been strictly followed, assuring users that recorded trips are handled with utmost confidentiality.
The audio recordings remain accessible to the involved parties for 15 days unless a report is submitted, after which they are securely deleted from both the Uber system and the user’s phone.
These safety enhancements by Uber address the endemic safety challenges faced by the ride-hailing industry in Nigeria.
By prioritizing the security of drivers and riders, Uber aims to build trust and confidence among its users and create a safer and more reliable transportation experience.
