Lyft Just Ditched Its Famous Moustache. Here's What it Means for Your Safety.

Ridesharing service Lyft is requiring its drivers to make a noticeable change to their cars. The company is ditching moustaches and installing colorful beacons in an effort to make locating your rideshare a safer experience.

The iconic Glowstache is hard to see at night, and Lyft’s new Amp beacons can guide users to their cars safely, according to Wired. The beacons can project any color of the rainbow, making pickup during heavy congestion easier.

Lyft’s Amp project is a new way ridesharing companies help you look after your safety. Here are some other considerations J-ville residents should take when calling for a ride.

Location, Location, Location

Jacksonville has a reputation for being dangerous for pedestrians, and some of the city’s biggest roads — like Beach and Atlantic Boulevards — play host to some deadly intersections. Getting picked up by a rideshare in a dangerous location can be a bad idea for both you and the driver.

Rideshares notify you about their arrival using the app, so you don’t need to rush. Waiting in a safe location, like inside a building or parking lot, can minimize the danger posed to you and your driver.

Many ridesharing apps follow strict protocols, and you should, too. Places like Jacksonville International Airport require ridesharing companies to pick you up curbside, and other designated pickup areas exist that can start your journey the right way.

In some areas cars might rule the road, and pedestrians are the ones in danger. Calling an Uber, Lyft, or other service could bail you out if you’re somewhere cars have no problem, but walking is difficult. Ridesharing a little ways up the road could be a safer option than walking it.

Know Your Car and Driver

The make of your car and identity of your driver can guarantee your safety.

You could end up not knowing who’s driving you, and that’s not safe. Uber, Lyft, and other services provide driver profiles to passengers, and take steps to ensure their drivers are trustworthy.

Fake Uber drivers have literally taken passengers for a ride, hailing pedestrians from the street and then overcharging them for their services. This happens most easily at packed events or airports, where you could be eager to get to your home or destination. Don’t let this happen to you.

Use the Tools Apps Give You

Uber has a bevy of tips and tricks that help keep you on track, like showing you your location on the map and letting you share your ETA with friends and family.

Make sure your driver passes muster, too. Many companies have their own safety protocols, but it boils down to a few key points that will keep you safe. Drivers must pass a background check, vehicle inspection, and meet feedback requirements.

The apps also call for professional courtesy. Lyft mandates no smoking, no weapons, and no drugs or alcohol while driving. A friendly conversation about the Jaguars, weekend plans, or music can go a long way toward keeping you and your driver relaxed, letting them focus on the road.

Ridesharing apps are easy to use, making them an attractive travel option. Making them safe for users should be equally attractive, and companies like Uber and Lyft are working to make that possible, but not all safety measures end in success.

Ridesharing adds a new wrinkle to driving, but our car accident attorneys handle auto accidents every day, and are ready to fight for your claim in court and help you get back on the road quickly. Whether you’re in a rideshare, or you’re driving your own, we know what to do. Fill out our no-risk, totally free case evaluation form today if you’re ready.