Uber has rolled out a new feature in New Orleans allowing female passengers to be matched specifically to female drivers. It’s a move the company has made in select cities across the country as part of a pilot effort that may expand nationally. Uber says this option is being made available to give women “more control over how they ride” and several locals thought it was a helpful feature they would be open to using.
Laura, a New Orleanian who has been following safety issues with Uber closely, noted when asked about the move, “I definitely feel safer when my driver is a woman. But, if you look at Uber’s history of mishandling sexual assault cases, this feature is a pink band-aid on a much bigger problem.” That said, the option being offered by Uber is quelling fears from some users about late-night car rides alone in the Crescent City. Another local, when asked about the addition of Uber’s “women only” feature, said, “I think it’s a great option especially if you’re out at night and drinking. To have that safety net in place of knowing you’re opting for a woman adds some peace of mind.”…