Without a doubt, Uber is one of those apps that is a complete lifesaver. It makes it so easy to get placed by putting all of the power onto your phone. No dealing with cash or with awkward phone calls, everything can get we done right there. Personally, it has definitely been a service that I have used multiple times, and I value greatly. But, that doesn't mean that as a female user I haven't had moments that made me almost delete the app.

Uber for me, is usually an easy way for me to get the place to place without having to inconvenience anyone in my family by having them drive me. Typically, Uber drives usually consist of me getting in the car, exchanging pleasantries, and then me moving on with my life. They usually go on without me thinking twice, usually a time where I can listen to music or scroll through Instagram.

If only this is how all Uber drives could go. If only they could all be this simple and worry-free. But, unfortunately, that isn't the case. As a female, I have had various Uber rides that involved uncomfortable and unwarranted flirting, questions about my relationship status (or lack thereof) and other personal and unnecessary comments. Some even get so bad to the point of me having no them drop me off a block away from my house to avoid them knowing the exact house I live it.

Never in all my time have I heard of any of my male family members or friends go through this. Now I don't doubt that men have had uncomfortable Uber rides, but I know that most females who use the app have had at least one bad experience. To a certain extent, it is simply regarded as an “occupational hazard" of using the app. Regardless, the discomfort and fear that I personally, as well as many other women have felt, seems harder and harder to brush off.

Now if you are reading this, I know what some people would say, “why don't you just stop using Uber." Others might even say “well you can just give them a bad review." While both of these comments are true, it completely misses the point and simply goes along with a cultural norm to victim shame. Why am I the one who is expected to change my actions when they are the ones creating a problem. Shouldn't it be the drivers scolded for misusing and abusing their situation?

At the end of the day, I know that I will still use the app and that unfortunately, I will end up in uncomfortable situations. But, I am hoping that this article can at least change how certain people view this issue and maybe even stop someone from using their power as a driver to cause others discomfort.