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Local Lyft, Uber drivers push ride-sharing companies to do more to keep them safe

By Stephanie Tinoco
By Stephanie Tinoco

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — When ride-sharing companies first ignited, there was a safety concern for the riders.

Crimes, however, are occurring more and more that involve Lyft and Uber drivers.

[READ MORE: Uber safety guide]

Local drivers, like Matt Golda, are feeling vulnerable and unsafe when they pick up their customers.

They hope to partner with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department to learn about self-defense.

Local drivers told Channel 9 reporter Stephanie Tinoco they ultimately want ride-sharing companies to do more to keep their drivers safe.

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"I've had some Lyft pickups where the person has said their name was “Little Heath Bar,” said Golda, who drives for Lyft and Uber. “It literally said “Lil Heath Bar."

Golda Told Channel 9 about his interesting drives with Lyft and Uber.

"Lots of people vomit,” he said. “People have smuggled beers in my car."

Golda said sick passengers and spills are the least of his worries.

Recently, a Lyft driver was violently carjacked in the NoDa neighborhood by a customer she was supposed to be picking up.

"We're putting our lives on the line every time we put somebody in our car,” Golda said.

Last year, Charlotte Uber driver Marlo Medina Chevez was murdered.

Drivers told Channel 9 they want the platforms for which they drive to pay more attention to drivers and their safety.

"I'm really nervous about my surroundings when I drive,” said Lyft and Uber driver Lakisha Steele. "I think there really needs to be a lot more stipulations for riders on these platforms."

"We are required to have our picture, our license plate number, full detail of our car,” Golda said. “They are required to have nothing, but we're picking them up."

Uber riders now have easy access to a button within the app - one click and it contacts police.

Drivers said there's nothing readily available in the app to help them.

"There's no way I can contact them directly right away,” Golda said. “I don't want to give it up. It’s just, I wish they would vet the customers a little better."

Statement from Lyft:

"At Lyft, safety is our number one priority. From the beginning, we have worked hard to design policies and features that protect our community. For driver safety, these measures include a 24/7 Critical Response Line for situations in which drivers or riders feel their safety is threatened, and a dedicated Trust and Safety team that investigates safety-related concerns. 

"If drivers ever feel uncomfortable with their passenger, we encourage them to stop and end the ride, and call our Critical Response Line. Any behavior threatening the safety or comfort of riders or drivers is not tolerated, and we stand ready to assist and work with law enforcement when necessary."

Cox Media Group

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