From CNET: Uber is aiming to make it easier and safer for passengers to connect with the right driver. The ride-hailing company on Thursday announced several upcoming safety features, from the ability to directly text 911 emergency responders to a new technology that uses ultrasound waves for automatically verifying a ride.
"We recognize that becoming an integral part of people's lives comes with real responsibility," Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi wrote in a blog post announcing the news.
Uber's announcement comes a day after a report published by the Washington Post detailed how the company's "special investigations unit" allegedly mishandles incidents of rape, kidnapping and assault by its drivers. The report said Uber's agents are pressured to keep drivers working for the company after such allegations, reportedly compromising rider safety.
Hundreds of passengers and drivers have come forward over the past few years alleging sexual assault during rides. Several lawsuits have been brought against Uber by people saying they were raped and groped by drivers. Similar allegations have been made against Uber's rival Lyft, which has been sued by 18 women over the last month alleging sexual assault by its drivers.
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