According to the survey, conducted with 606 people through telephone interviews, “81% of Portuguese people consider TVDE (Uber taxis and similar) services an important tool for road safety, especially in preventing accidents related to alcohol consumption,” notes a press release from Católica and Bolt, a technology company that offers mobility services.

The survey aimed to "understand Portuguese people's perceptions of transportation safety, particularly through the use of individual and paid passenger transportation platforms in unmarked vehicles using an electronic platform (TVDE)" and was conducted by the Center for Applied Studies at the Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics, in partnership with the company.

Almost half (48%) of respondents "stated that they chose TVDE over other mobility options because it made them feel safer," with 31% doing so "as a way to get home safely when they felt tired or distracted," the statement adds.

27% used TVDE "to avoid driving after drinking alcohol," and 18% chose "transportation apps to avoid public transportation where they feel unsafe."

More than half of respondents (51%) "have already used an app to ensure someone else got home safely, instead of letting them drive, with 33% saying they always do so, and 18% frequently.”

Nine out of 10 users “feel safe using TVDE after a night out,” and this perception “tends to be stronger among people with higher levels of education.”

The survey also indicates that “32% of Portuguese people use TVDE regularly, with higher participation among women (58%) and adults under 45.”

The main motivations “point to convenience (58%), accessibility (31%), and not owning a car (25%).”