In a bold move to enhance safety within the ride-hailing industry, Bolt, a leading online taxi platform, has introduced a series of proactive measures aimed at protecting both drivers and passengers. Recognizing that safety requires a forward-thinking approach, the company has committed Ksh.14 billion over the next three years to raise awareness of its safety features and scale up preventive measures. With technological advancements designed to mitigate risks, Bolt aims to provide a safer experience for all users.
Proactive Safety Features
Bolt is emphasizing a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to safety. According to the company, safety is not just about managing incidents but preventing them before they occur. To achieve this, Bolt has integrated several innovative features into its platform. One such measure is the selfie verification process for drivers. Drivers are required to take a selfie, which is used to authenticate their identity and ensure passengers can identify them via the app. This verification process adds a layer of security and reduces the risk of impersonation.
Another new feature detects when a trip has been stationary for an extended period. If a trip pauses unexpectedly, a pop-up message appears on both the driver’s and passenger’s devices, prompting them to confirm their safety. If either party signals distress, the system immediately alerts Bolt’s security team. This feature is designed to act as a preventive measure, reassuring drivers and passengers that help is always within reach and deterring potential misbehavior.
The company has also invested in a dedicated safety team consisting of over 500 professionals. These experts undergo continuous training to improve their response skills, ensuring they are prepared to address any safety concerns quickly and efficiently.
Rapid Response and Emergency Support
In situations of perceived danger or emergencies, passengers are encouraged to use the SOS button, which remains active throughout the duration of every ride. This feature ensures that a specialized field team can respond to distress signals promptly. Depending on the nature of the incident, either medical or security assistance is dispatched within five minutes or less.
If an accident occurs and the driver is unconscious, an emergency ambulance can be quickly dispatched, helping to prevent further harm. These quick-response measures are a crucial part of Bolt’s commitment to safeguarding users during every ride.
Bolt has also taken steps to address the security risks associated with certain locations. By mapping out high-risk areas known for criminal activity, the company alerts drivers before they accept trips from these locations. This allows drivers to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions to protect themselves.
Empowering Drivers and Passengers
To further enhance transparency, Bolt has introduced trip-sharing features. Passengers can now share their ride details with trusted contacts, adding an extra layer of security. This feature helps prevent conflicts between drivers and passengers while ensuring accountability on both sides.
Bolt also prioritizes transparency with its drivers, who are considered entrepreneurs. The platform provides drivers with comprehensive trip details, including destination information, route insights, and payment methods. This enables drivers to make informed decisions about their trips, which contributes to overall safety.
By continuously refining its safety features and investing in technological innovations, Bolt is setting new industry standards for ride-hailing platforms. These proactive measures aim to ensure that ride-hailing remains a trusted and secure mode of transportation for all users, improving the safety of both passengers and drivers alike.
