Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy works together with the Ride Companion Terms of Service ("Terms"). By using the Ride Companion mobile application, website, or services ("Services"), you agree to the data practices described in this Privacy Policy and the Terms of Service.

1. Scope and HIPAA-Adjacent Notice

Ride Companion Services, Inc. ("Ride Companion," "we," "us," or "our") provides non-medical transportation and companion support services.

HIPAA-Adjacent Disclosure:

Ride Companion is not a covered entity under HIPAA and does not provide medical care. However, we voluntarily apply HIPAA-inspired safeguards when handling sensitive rider information, including:

• Mobility assistance needs
• Appointment transportation details
• Limited health-related context strictly necessary to provide services

We do not access medical records, diagnose conditions, or share data with healthcare providers without explicit authorization.

2. Information We Collect

A. Information You Provide

Collected when creating an account, booking a ride, or requesting companion services:

• Full legal name, phone number, and email
• Pickup and drop-off locations
• Emergency contact information
• Mobility or assistance needs (e.g., wheelchair, walker)
• Payment information (processed by third-party PCI-compliant processors)

We do not sell personal data.

B. Automatically Collected Information

When you use the app, we collect device identifiers, OS version, interaction logs, IP address, and crash diagnostics strictly for security and service improvement.

C. Location Data

Ride Companion collects foreground and limited background location data to match riders with companions, provide navigation, and support safety. Collection occurs only during active service windows and is never sold.

3. Communications Data (Twilio Compliance)

We use Twilio for SMS trip updates and coordinator calls. We collect phone numbers and service message content.

We do not use SMS for marketing without opt-in or record calls without notice.

Users may opt out of SMS at any time by replying STOP.

4. How We Use Your Information

• Deliver transportation services
• Ensure rider and driver safety
• Process payments and refunds
• Comply with CPUC and ADA obligations

5. Data Sharing and Disclosure

We share data only as necessary with:

• Drivers and companions (trip-limited data)
• Twilio (communications) and Stripe (payments)
• Google Maps (navigation)
• Legal authorities when required by law

6. Google Play Data Safety Alignment

7. Data Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary to fulfill the following purposes:

• Provide Services: To maintain your account and facilitate active transportation and companion requests.
• Meet Requirements: To comply with legal, tax, and regulatory obligations (such as CPUC record-keeping).
• Resolve Disputes: To handle insurance claims, safety reports, or payment disagreements.
• Enforce Terms: To ensure compliance with our Terms of Service and prevent fraudulent activity.

When personal data is no longer required for these purposes, it is securely deleted, anonymized, or archived in accordance with our internal data handling policies.

8. Contact

For privacy-related questions or concerns:

Ride Companion Services, Inc.

3200 Guasti Road, Ontario, CA 91765

Email: support@myridecompanion.com

Phone: (909) 827-8644