Imagine it’s 3 a.m. and you’re just trying to get home, but your Uber driver decides to take a detour. That’s exactly the situation a passenger shared in a viral TikTok, and honestly, the vibes were completely off. The driver reportedly tried to pull into a parking garage for 15 to 20 minutes to charge his EV, despite the car already having 43% battery. To make matters worse, he missed a crucial exit, leaving the rider feeling trapped and unsafe.
In the video, the passenger stood her ground, telling the driver, “I don’t want to get into a random parking lot with you.” She ultimately ended the trip and called the police. Uber confirmed they investigated the incident and “taken appropriate action,” reminding users that in-app tools like GPS tracking and the emergency button are there for a reason.
How to stay safe
Safety experts, including Dillon Abend of the app 3rd-i, say that feeling uncomfortable is valid—especially when traveling solo at night. The big issue? People are often afraid to call for help while the driver is right there.
To avoid a sketchy situation, remember the “SAMI” steps championed by the What’s My Name Foundation:
- Stop before you get in.
- Ask the driver, “What’s my name?”
- Match the license plate to your app.
- Inform a trusted group of 3–5 people of your location.
Why it matters
This isn't just about one bad ride; it’s a reminder that your safety is the main character. Always use the two-step PIN authentication and share your trip status. It’s better to be extra cautious and double-check your ride than to risk a situation that goes left. Real talk: your peace of mind is worth the extra thirty seconds of verification.
