Hopatcong Police Share Rideshare Safety Tips Ahead Of World Cup Crowds

HOPATCONG, NJ — With FIFA World Cup matches bringing increased travel, crowds and rideshare activity to New Jersey, the Hopatcong Police Department is urging residents and visitors to take a few extra seconds to make sure they're getting into the right vehicle.

Before entering any rideshare vehicle, riders should check the license plate, verify the vehicle make and model, confirm the driver's name and photo in the app, and never enter a vehicle that doesn't match their ride details, police said.

New Jersey's Sami's Law requires rideshare vehicles to display identifying information and driver credentials to help protect passengers and improve rider safety. Law enforcement agencies across the state will be enforcing the law to help keep residents and visitors safe during the busy travel period, according to the department.

The law honors Samantha "Sami" Josephson, the New Jersey native killed in 2019 after mistakenly entering a vehicle she believed was her rideshare.

"A few extra seconds can save a life," police said. "In honor of Sami Josephson: Check the car. Check the driver. Ride safe."

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