Safety and Etiquette

IslandRideShare has some suggestions for the benefit of its users, but responsibility for safety rests with the user alone.

• All IslandRideShare members can correspond by anonymous email. You send your message using a form on this site, using your IslandRideShare member ID, to your correspondent's IslandRideShare ID, and we forward it to their regular address. They correspond with you in the same way. Your email address and identification remain private.
• You should meet the person you're considering traveling with, in a public place, before agreeing to travel together. Discuss driving safety.
• Confirm your prospective travel partner's phone number by calling it. Other ways of increasing confidence include exchanging photographs, copying your travel partner's driver's license or other photo ID information, and asking for personal references and calling them.
• We suggest that you exchange emergency contact numbers before traveling, and exchange any important medical information.

Please keep in mind that the internet is like a big city with all kinds of people in it. Don't travel with someone you don't trust.

When meeting someone for the first time:

• Choose a public meeting place like a cafe
• Tell a friend or family member where you're going
• Take your cell phone along if you have one
• Consider having a friend accompany you
• Trust your instincts

For more information about personal safety online, check out these resources:

• www.getsafeonline.org
• www.wiredsafety.org

RideShare Etiquette

Before you agree to RideShare, be sure to discuss your expectations with the others involved. Here are some basic suggestions:

• What are your "rules of the road" regarding: radio/music preferences, food, coffee, smoking, perfume/cologne use, talking vs. reading, seating arrangements?
• Drivers need to ensure their vehicle is properly maintained and that they carry sufficient insurance. Adequate third party liability is essential, and underinsured motorist protection is recommended.

Notes especially for commuters:

• Where and when are the pick ups, and how long is the maximum wait time for latecomers? (5-10 minutes is a rule of thumb for those commuting to work or school)
• What about "Plan B"- alternate plans if someone is sick or has a personal emergency?
• Make sure you get contact information for each member of the RideShare so that you can get in touch at short notice if plans change. An emergency contact number for each person is also good idea.
• Another common rule is "No Side-trips"!! Unless your group agrees on this beforehand, it is unfair to ask others to wait while you do errands.
• Whatever your own situation is, make sure that everyone has a clear understanding and mutual agreement before embarking on a trip of any kind.

Report Abuse

Any incidents should be reported to the appropriate authorities, but if you wish to alert other RideShare users, please send an email to : reportabuse@hiceec.com