The effects of a public ridesharing service on crime in Austin, Texas

• In Event: Crime and Place: Transit Crime

Abstract

There has been a proliferation of public ridesharing services in the United States and abroad, and these services are now available in hundreds of U.S. cities. Ridesharing services can offer both substantial benefits and substantial challenges for users, pre-existing transportation services, and regulatory agencies. However, very little research has focused on the effect of these services on public safety. This study used a longitudinal place-based approach to examine the effect of one public ride-sharing service, Lyft, on bar crime in Austin, Texas. This study points to the need for more research about the public safety and ridesharing services that is focused on the specific times, places, and situations where these services may provide particular benefits or pose particular challenges. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.

Author

• Breanne Cave, The Police Foundation