Important: Kootenay Rideshare does not perform background or reference checks on any users. All ridesharing arrangements are made at your own discretion and risk.
Before You Ride
Taking a few simple precautions can make every trip safer and more comfortable for everyone involved. Use common sense and trust your instincts.
- Meet in a public place — arrange your first meeting at a café, transit hub, or other well-lit public location rather than at a private residence.
- Verify driver details — confirm the driver's name, vehicle make and model, and licence plate before getting in. Share these details with a friend or family member.
- Bring a phone — carry a charged mobile phone and have emergency contacts readily accessible.
- Trust your gut — if something feels off about a driver, passenger, or situation, it's okay to decline the ride.
Cost & Driving Rules
Clear communication about money and expectations prevents misunderstandings on the road.
- Discuss cost contributions before departing — agree on how fuel and other expenses will be shared. The Canadian Automobile Association publishes annual driving-cost data that can help set fair rates.
- Clarify the driving arrangement — will one person do all the driving while passengers contribute cash, or will driving duties rotate without money changing hands?
- Set ground rules early — talk about music, food, smoking, conversation preferences, and any other comfort factors before the trip begins.
Vehicle & Emergency Preparedness
- Vehicle maintenance — drivers should keep their vehicles in good working order: check tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels regularly.
- Insurance — drivers are responsible for carrying proper vehicle insurance. Passengers may wish to confirm coverage before a long trip.
- Plan for the unexpected — discuss what happens if someone is running late, needs to cancel, or if the vehicle breaks down. Agree on a maximum wait time for latecomers (commonly 5–10 minutes).
- Emergency contacts — both drivers and passengers should leave trip details and expected arrival times with someone they trust.
Reporting Safety Concerns
If you have had a ridesharing experience that compromised your safety, please contact your local police. For technical problems with the website, you can reach out through our contact page, though please note that as a volunteer-run project we may not be able to respond promptly.
More Resources
For advice on setting up regular carpool arrangements, visit our Commuter Tips page. You can also review our FAQ for answers to common questions about using the platform.