How to Use Uber's 911 Panic Button

Uber recently introduced a feature that allows passengers to dial "911" straight from the Uber app. This feature is one of the many changes Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi is implementing in an effort to increase rider safety features, and making both riders and drivers feel more comfortable. 

To use this feature in the app, all you have to do is select the safety icon in the lower right corner of the app that appears during your trip. Then, select the 911 Assistance button in the menu and then tap a red Call 911 button. Right now, this feature is only available during your Uber trip. 

The number of assaults that occur in rideshare vehicles is increasing, and sadly is becoming daily conversation in many news outlets. Uber stated that they will not be monitoring the calls directly, rather they will receive a report that a call was made. 

The feature is only available for riders as of now, and is expected to be implemented for drivers this summer. Also to be introduced this summer, Uber will start location sharing for those passengers who use the "911" service so that the dispatcher can automatically track the user's location to get help as soon as possible.