Code of Conduct

Safety note: Ride Splits currently verifies campus community membership via @csusb.edu or @coyote.csusb.edu emails and requests student ID and driver’s license for identity verification. As od August, 2025 we have a duirng-ride reporting feature that allows riders to report unsafe behavior from drivers, or the other way around.

Welcome to Ride Splits. Whether you are a rider or driver, our community relies on mutual respect, safety, and accountability to ensure positive experiences for everyone involved. The following Code of Conduct outlines our shared expectations. Violation of these guidelines may lead to suspension or removal from the Ride Splits platform.

1. Treat Everyone with Respect

• Always interact with others in a courteous and non-confrontational manner.
• Examples: Don't yell, use profanity, or make derogatory comments. Respect differing opinions and personal identities.

2. No Harassment or Discrimination

• Discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, age, language, or appearance is strictly prohibited.
• Harassment, threats, or any form of intimidation are not tolerated.
• Example: A driver refuses to pick up a rider based on appearance or perceived background—this is a violation.

3. Respect Personal Space and Boundaries

• Do not engage in unwanted physical contact, including handshakes, touching, or hovering.
• Sexual comments, questions about relationship status, or inappropriate advances are strictly prohibited.
• Example: Asking a rider if they are single or commenting on their looks is not allowed.

4. No Contact After the Trip

• Once the trip is over, do not attempt to text, call, or contact the other party unless it's about a lost item.
• Contact outside the platform without consent is considered harassment.
• Example: A rider tries to follow or message a driver on Instagram after the ride—this is a violation.

5. Keep It Clean

• Clean up after yourself. Don't leave trash, spills, or unpleasant odors.
• Respect the car as shared property during the ride.
• Example: Leaving fast food wrappers or smoking inside the vehicle can lead to deactivation.

6. Physical and Vehicle Safety

• Always wear seatbelts and follow local safety laws.
• Drivers must maintain their vehicles in safe, working condition.
• Example: A driver with broken seatbelts or a non-functional AC should not offer rides until resolved.

7. Follow the Law

• Abide by all traffic and local laws, including speed limits, sobriety, and ride-share regulations.
• Drugs, alcohol, or weapons are not allowed in the vehicle during a Ride Splits trip.
• Example: A rider drinking alcohol in the backseat or a driver speeding excessively is a violation.

8. Help Us Improve the Community

• Report misconduct, unsafe behavior, or cleanliness issues through the app.
• Our trust and safety team will investigate all serious reports.
• Example: If a driver receives repeated complaints about aggressive driving, their account may be reviewed or suspended.

9. Consequences

• Violations may lead to warnings, temporary suspension, or permanent removal.
• For serious safety breaches, law enforcement may be involved.

10. Commitment to Inclusion and Accessibility

• Support riders with accessibility needs (e.g., service animals, mobility devices).
• Do not deny rides based on disabilities or special needs.
• Example: Refusing a rider with a guide dog is a violation of federal law and our values.

User Reputation (Summary)

Ride Splits maintains a backend user reputation score (0%–100%) to promote trust. The score is not public. The app may show warnings when thresholds are crossed. Repeated policy violations or unsafe behavior can reduce your score and lead to enforcement (including flags, loss of driver privileges below 65%, temporary bans, and lifetime bans at 0%). Off‑platform (clandestine) arrangements are prohibited and harm reputation. For full details, see the Terms.