Digital Hitchhiking: Think Before You App!

The National Limousine Association (NLA) has produced a new on-air public service announcement to educate the industry and public at large about the risks and hazards of transportation network companies (TNCs).

The video titled “Digital Hitchhiking: Think Before You App!” is an extension of the NLA’s ongoing Ride Responsibly initiative to improve passenger safety, education and awareness for anyone using a ride-hailing based car service such as Uber, Lyft, Sidecar or Whisk.

It urges consumers to arm themselves with the necessary tools to Ride Responsibly and make smart choices when it comes to their safety.

Convenience comes at a cost, but that cost should never be your safety. A survey conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the NLA in February 2015 encompassed approximately 2,000 adults ages 18+, illustrates consumer concerns over the lack of background checks, insurance protocol and drug testing currently in place with ride-hailing car services.

The survey uncovers Americans’ opinion of the ride-hailing app car service industry. The alarming results indicate:

• 91% of Americans feel there should be mandatory rules / regulations for ride-hailing app drivers.
• 83% of Americans feel ride-hailing app drivers should have to undergo a criminal background check.
• 83% of ride-hailing app drivers should have to pass regular drug testing.

“Our PSAs are a response to consumers’ concerns. We want to work with our industry and the public to keep our roads safe,” said Gary Buffo, president of the NLA. “We strive to always improve passenger protection, and this campaign emphasizes the educational efforts necessary to reach that goal.”

The new announcements mirror the message from NLA’s Ride Responsibly campaign that launched earlier in 2015, featuring mantras such as “Think Before You App!” reminding passengers to stay informed while using electronic app based services.

This new video PSA, which will air on local and national broadcast television stations, brings the campaign to life by demonstrating the dangers of not being aware of your rights.