Do the Uber cars have a sign on them saying they Uber vehicles like cabs do? I just wonder how we will know which car is the one picking us up? I know it is a silly question but worry about things like that.
It's not a silly question at all. It's actually a very important question for several reasons.
In answer to the "sign," it's technically called "trade dress," and
yes, the Uber should usually have trade dress displayed on the front windshield. To make things a little more confusing, Uber has two different sets of trade dress out there -- the original U, and a more modern circular symbol.
When a driver accepts your request, your app will display the driver's name (REAL first name), a description of the car (year and make), and
tag number. And at least in some markets (I don't know if it's all markets) a picture of the driver.
Do not ask,
"Are you Jim?" Ask,
"What is your name?"
It's too easy for anyone to nod yes if you give them the name, which could cause you to get in the wrong car. And be driven to the wrong address -- while someone else gets driven to PortMiami on your credit card!
Likewise, a savvy driver will not ask if you are "Mary" or "MaryJ."
They will ask,
"What is your name?" and they may also ask where you are going so they can check that against their destination to be sure they have the
right Mary.
Those cross-checks are important protections to ensure that you are getting in the correct Uber, and are especially important in crowded venues.
As miT said above, you can watch the approaching Uber on your app, but be aware that the GPS lags several seconds behind the actual car. So you may be watching your phone and look up to find the Uber driver parked right in front of you...probably laughing.