Governor Phil Murphy has signed a new law in New Jersey, providing greater protections for Uber and Lyft riders.
“Just one unscrupulous mind seeking to take advantage of those passengers is one too many, and it is our responsibility to keep riders safe,” Governor Murphy said in a statement.
It includes making sure that ride-hailing vehicles have two identifying markers so that passengers can easily spot them. Drivers will also have a two-dimensional barcode provided by the company so that passengers can confirm the vehicle.
“It’s essential that we take necessary steps to ensure the safety of ride share passengers. Making it easier for riders to identify their vehicles will make it tougher for nefarious actors to pose as a driver,” Senator Cory Booker said.
The bill is called “Sami’s Law” and is named after Samantha Josephson. She’s the New Jersey college student who was killed in South Carolina after getting into a car she thought was a ridesharing vehicle.
“We are proud that New Jersey has taken the lead in making rideshare safer for everyone. We also want to thank our family, friends, and community for supporting us through this tough time,” Marci, Seymour and Sydney Josephson said.
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