Ride-hailing giant Bolt has issued a strong safety advisory to drivers and passengers, urging them to avoid offline trips during the festive season. The company emphasized that rides arranged outside the Bolt app pose serious safety risks, as they bypass critical in-app safety measures designed to protect users.
With increased travel and mobility during the holiday period, Bolt’s Safety Manager for Africa, Hazel May Omune, reinforced the importance of sticking to Bolt’s platform for all trips. “At Bolt, safety is our top priority. Offline trips undermine the safety features we have in place, such as ride tracking, emergency response, and location sharing. We strongly advise both drivers and riders to use the Bolt app to ensure their safety,” said Omune.
Bolt’s robust in-app safety features include:
Share Location: Passengers and drivers can share their live ride details, including vehicle information and real-time location, with friends or family through a secure link.
Emergency Assist: Users can discreetly alert an emergency response team with the in-app Emergency Assist button, which also notifies Bolt’s safety team for immediate intervention.
Ride Check: Bolt proactively monitors trips for unusual activity, enabling timely safety support when needed.
24/7 Safety Support: A dedicated safety team is available around the clock to provide assistance during and after rides.
Bolt reminded users that offline trips not only eliminate these safety features but also leave both drivers and passengers vulnerable to risks like untracked rides and lack of emergency assistance.
Passengers are further encouraged to report any suspicious or inappropriate behavior directly through the app for swift investigation. Bolt reiterated its commitment to fostering a safe, reliable, and seamless mobility experience for all its users in Kenya.
As part of its broader safety efforts, Bolt will continue to invest in advanced safety tools and public awareness campaigns, ensuring that riders and drivers remain protected during this busy festive season.