Lyft is testing itself Just like Uber does . This feature confirms to drivers that the person getting into their car is who they say they are. The program first launches in Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Jacksonville, Miami, Phoenix and Seattle.
Lyft will use third-party databases to verify drivers’ legal names, but has not disclosed which services it uses. If a driver can’t be verified in one of those vague databases, he or she can also provide government identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or government ID, to be verified. After the driver completes the process, drivers will see a verification icon on that person’s profile.
For now, at least, the verification process isn’t mandatory, although Lyft’s FAQ states that “drivers are highly encouraged to participate.” If the program works as Lyft hopes, drivers may be more inclined to accept requests from verified drivers (and unverified drivers may see longer wait times).
Ridesharing poses significant safety risks for drivers. It acquired Lyft between 2017 and 2019 information on sexual violence (although this does not differentiate between drivers and passengers). Driving gig workers are also at risk . The hope is that screening programs like this one can make drivers feel more comfortable letting a stranger into their car. Another recent move by Lyft to improve driver safety feature that to more cities in February.
