Personal safety perception of ride-share amongst young adults in Cape Town: The effect of gender, vehicle access and Covid-19

Abstract

This paper investigates ride-share related personal safety of young adults in Cape Town in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. As a response to gender-based violence, the focus is on the different perceptions of females and males. Additionally, this paper considers how having access to a private vehicle affects an individual's perception of their safety. Data was collected amongst university students in Cape Town, as they have previously been identified as likely ride-share users.

Uncertainty in using ride-share services is explored in the scenarios of ‘before’, ‘during’ and ‘after’ Covid-19 to see possible impacts of the pandemic. This study shows that access to a private vehicle is a significant factor when considering ride-share trips ‘before’, ‘during’ and ‘after’ the Covid-19 pandemic. Being female, especially with access to a private vehicle, has a negative correlation to making ride-share trips ‘at night’, ‘alone’ or ‘alone at night’.

By understanding the Covid-19 pandemic influences on individuals’ perceptions, strategies and policies can be better informed. This ensures that the negative impacts of similar future disruptive events are mitigated. Supporting the progress of the case city, Cape Town, into having a more inclusive, multi-modal transport culture, this study proposes the implementation of several policies and strategies.