Samantha Josephson: State legislators press for ri share security bill after the student's death
The bill will attempt to solve a problem that is fundamental to how Uber and Lyft work. While taxis are required to be painted in specific colors or have noticeable markings, the appeal of equestrian apps is that drivers can use their own vehicle to make money.
On Tuesday, South Carolina Rep. Seth Rose and Co-sponsor Rep. Micah Caskey plans to file the "Samantha L. Josephson Ridesharing Safety Act" bill to make it easier for riders to identify Uber and Lift vehicles.
The riding companies have a number of safety features that provide controls for riders so that you do not get into the wrong vehicles that happened to Josephson.
For example, the Uber app informs the rider of the brand, model and color of the vehicle, the license plate number and the driver's name and image. Uber and Lyft also allow drivers and riders to call text or call each other, and riders can send their tour information and location to friends during the trip.
According to current South Carolina law, rhythm drivers are required to have reflective stickers.
What other campuses have done
The question of false Uber drivers is particularly acute on university libraries, full of technological knowledge that often uses Uber and Lyft as a way to get around, especially when Drinking alcohol.
Uber said it has been working with police and colleges to solve this problem.
"Since 2017, we have been working on local law enforcement and college studies across the country to educate the public on how to avoid false turntables," an uber spokesman said. "Everyone in Uber is devastated to hear about this indelible crime, and our hearts are with Samantha Josephson's family and loved ones. We are still focused on raising public awareness of this incredibly important issue."
Several university towns, including Columbia in the last few days, he has taken steps in the wake of violent events.
Since Josephson's death, Columbia Police has placed fliers with safety tips for riding and taxi rides on the windows of business in the city. The pilot highlights a particular drop-off and pick-up zone, and recommends riders to cross the streets on the crossroads, shut down the phones, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
In an interview with CNN, Rose noted that USC currently has a university's 101 class for students offering a crash course in what to do and what not to do in Columbia. He plans to send a formal letter to the USC president and chairman asking them to incorporate security measures for ri parts in that course.
"I think every place across the country, every university, must take note that this is a real danger and we must take precautions to educate everyone that this is an opportunity," Rose said.
Florida Gulf Coast University had a similar reaction after an alleged assault by a fake Uber driver in August 2017. In that case, a female student mistakenly entered a car she thought was from a riding company service, the university police said and the driver sued then by attacking the student.
The university said that officials speak regularly with students, including by briefing on the importance of personal security.
"We urge them to adopt the friendship system with their friends to minimize a criminal's ability to exploit a situation we think has happened in this case you referred," the universe said in a statement.
"When the crime happened, the college issued a reminder to all students and employees to carefully verify the make, model, and number platform of a private carrier's car to ensure they get into the right vehicle."
Court records show that the vehicle had an uber sticker visible, according to WJLA.
A US university spokesman said they have a number of security features and advice for students taking stock equities.
"We recommend students follow the security policy for the equestrian services, including using the app to call and identify an authorized driver, rather than relying on a window decal," the spokesman said.
"In addition, AUPD offers a security service called Rave Guardian, which can be used in the District of Columbia. Rave Guardian has a contingency icon for Campus Police and Local Police Emergencies, depending on use on or off campus. [19659002]" Finally, AUPD a safe ride back to the Campus program. If a student finds himself stranded in DC for some reason, they can call a cab and bring it to the headquarters of the University. The student must notify AUPD that they are on their way by calling 202-885-2527. AUPD pays for the cab and places the amount on the student's account so that even without money or tour, students can always return safely to campus. This service can be utilized within a radius of 10 kilometers from the main campus. "
CNN's Neil Monahan contributed to this report.