Evaluating Security Concerns and Proposed Solutions in Ride-Sharing

Ride-sharing, where passengers share a vehicle along overlapping routes, offers cost-saving benefits but also presents challenges like longer travel times and social dynamics. Iran, with its long history of ride-sharing, provides a distinctive context to explore these dynamics. This study investigates how ride-sharing impacts users' security perceptions. A literature review identified key variables and research gaps, informing the design of a questionnaire. It covered demographic data, factors influencing ride-sharing choices, travel behavior influences, and opinions on solutions, and was administered online. After data collection, the survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics for reliability and validity, followed by factor analysis to group variables into six key factors. An ordered logit model was then used to examine the impact of these factors on security perceptions. The findings highlight differences in security perceptions. Individuals with very low-security perceptions tend to retain their insecurity, indicating the need for targeted policies to address their concerns. In contrast, those with moderate or higher security perceptions are more likely to experience improvements. Key factors influencing security perceptions include gender (women reporting higher concerns), age (younger reporting greater insecurity), social and media influences (negatively impacting perceptions), past harassment experiences, and family norms. Employment status also plays a role, with business owners and students reporting fewer concerns. Several solutions were evaluated for their effectiveness. Women-only transportation offers temporary security but reinforces gender separation and excludes vulnerable groups. Security apps show potential but face privacy concerns, with features like preventive measures and direct reporting needing improvement. In-vehicle cameras and real-time tracking are highly valued, with many users willing to pay extra. Educational campaigns and school-based programs raise awareness and encourage safer behaviors. By addressing these factors and solutions, this study provides actionable insights for policymakers and service providers to enhance security and inclusivity in ride-sharing, particularly in developing countries.