Texas Tech students are rattled after reports of multiple sexual assaults involving rideshare drivers near campus. While none of the incidents happened on university grounds, the news has made students wary of stepping into an Uber or Lyft after a night out.
Some students, like sophomore Sarah Cardona, now say walking feels safer than hopping into a rideshare—even late at night. “At least outside you can yell for help,” she explained, pointing out the obvious flaw of being trapped in a stranger’s car with no easy escape. Other students echoed concern, especially for female friends and classmates who rely on rideshares to get around.
Texas Tech Police urged students to double-check license plates and driver photos before getting in, promising they’re “always monitoring” even if students don’t see them. Which is nice, but doesn’t exactly help when you’re stuck in the backseat of a Honda Civic with tinted windows and a creepy driver.
At this point, Lubbock students don’t just have to worry about grades, rent, and potholes—they’ve got to treat every Uber like it’s a potential crime scene.
