Using an e-hailing company or hiring a private chauffeur service offers a world of convenience, but entrusting your personal safety to a stranger doesn’t come without its share of risk. While e-hailing companies do their utmost to incorporate policies, regulations and best practices to ensure their passengers’ well-being, the sheer volumes of vehicles and trips make these nearly impossible to enforce.

How to stay safe when using an e-hailing service

Whether you’re calling a cab to pick you up from a late-night jol, or booking a lift to the airport, we encourage e-hailing customers to practice safe commuting, by being alert at all times. When you’re waiting for your cab or private chauffeur service to arrive, always remember these three simple safety tips:

1. Don’t wait in the street alone

Rather wait indoors until your driver arrives. A professional driver won’t mind waiting an extra minute while you exit the building and lock up behind you. If you have no choice but to wait outside, try waiting with a group of friends or in a public place where there are other people around you.

2. Check that you’re climbing into the correct car

Your e-hailing service should provide a car registration number and driver name. You’ll often receive a photo of the car model and the driver’s face. Check the license plate and car model before opening the door, and ask the driver to confirm his/her name, as well as yours, before climbing into the car.

3. Trust your instinct

We believe in the human sixth sense – if something feels wrong, trust your gut. Even if it doesn’t make sense to you at the time, rather cancel your trip and make an alternative arrangement when those unexplained alarm bells in your head start ringing.

Consider a private chauffeur service instead

Being alert, making smart choices, and listening to your gut are all important measures you should be taking to arrive safely at your destination. Using a private chauffeur service is one way that you can ensure your safety on the road.

• Receive personalised attentive service. Your itinerary handler and driver go the extra mile to ensure your safety, especially compared to engaging with a hurried, often over-tired and overworked e-cab driver.

• Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with travelling in a prestigious, modern vehicle. Luxury chauffeur services use top car brands fitted with premium safety features.

• A professional private driver is likely to have received advanced driving training. This certification teaches them how to handle their car better in wet conditions, prevent accidents, and respond or react to potentially hazardous conditions.

• A private chauffeur service company will have far more stringent vetting procedures when selecting both drivers and vehicles.

When you book a Prime Driver private chauffeur, you can rest assured that your commute is in the most capable hands on the road. Want to find out more? Just email reservation@primedriver.co.za for a quote on your next trip.