Is it safe for a women to drive for Uber or Lyft? If so, what tips do you have for a new female driver?

More and more females are signing up to drive with Uber and Lyft in the United States.  Two primary reasons are both to do with increased safety.

• Drivers have flexible hours where they can choose where and when to work.  This allows female drivers to avoid dangerous times or places during their shifts.

• All parties, drivers and riders, are "known" and registered users.  This introduces a level of accountability.

Whether it is safe depends on various factors, such as:

1. When you drive
2. Where you drive
3. What precautions you take while driving.

#1 and #2: Women may want to avoid certain times of the day, such as late night, and certain places where crimes may be high. I am not familiar with San Diego, so I cannot give any local advice, but these are two things you should definitely keep in mind while you decide on your shift.

#3: There are many tips you can follow to reduce the risk of driving. This includes installing an inside-facing dashcam, notifying your friends when you will be driving, and being aware of where the authorities are. 

Additional Tips & Advice for Female Rideshare Drivers

• Tips & Advice for female drivers? Safety advice? - People discussing tips

• Why don't you see more female Uber and Lyft drivers and how would you encourage more women to become one? - Some good conversations around female drivers here.

• Rideshare Services for Women - These are the companies that have additional precautions for female drivers.