New Uber Security Feature Connects You with 911 in the Event of an Emergency

Uber is adding security and safety features to its mobile app to help users feel safe while ride-sharing.

• By Sydny Shepard
• May 30, 2018

Users of popular ride-sharing app, Uber, might notice something a little different in the application layout starting this week.

After a string of assaults and even some cases of rape by its drivers, Uber is unveiling a new safety feature that will connect directly with police if you are in danger - with just the push of a button.

"We are talking to our riders and drivers and we know that if they're ever in an emergency situation, they want help fast," said Sachin Kansal, Uber's director of product management.

The new security feature, when activated, displays the user's exact location, the make and model of the vehicle the user is riding in and its license plate number. The user can then relay that information to the dispatcher who answers the 911 call. In six cities, however, the user doesn't have to talk to get that information to police. All they have to do is hit the button and the information automatically is sent to 911, even if the user can't speak.

The six cities using the advanced version of the safety feature are:

• Denver, Colorado
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Chattanooga, Tennessee
• Naples, Florida
• Tri-Cities, Tennessee
• Louisville, Kentucky

Uber says Nashville, Tennessee will be the next city to get the advanced emergency button on its app.