Uber adds panic button for passengers in case of sexual assault by driver

Ride-hailing company Uber has added a panic alarm to their app in the United States so that riders have a quick way to contact 911 if they are attacked by the driver.

The company announced plans to introduce the feature nationwide last month. A number of Uber drivers have faced accusations of sex crimes for years.

“While no one should ever have to call 911 when using Uber, no form of transportation is 100 percent free of incidents,” CEO Dana Khosrowshahi said at the time. “If ever faced with an emergency situation, we want to help you get the help you need.”