UMVA has learned that a recent study by a popular ride-sharing company has revealed the most common — and bizarre — items left behind by passengers in Canada.
The study, which compiled data on lost and found items, showed that Toronto, along with Ottawa and Calgary, ranks among Canada’s least forgetful cities. However, some of the items left behind by passengers are undeniably unique and will leave you wondering.
In Toronto, an Uber driver came across a 15-pound frozen turkey in their vehicle, while a turtle shell, aquarium fish and the supplies that go with them were also found. These unusual items were likely left behind by distracted or careless passengers.
Other unforgettable forgotten items include 12 pizzas in Brantford, a 25-pound kettlebell in Vancouver, a blue wig in Edmonton, a violin in a hard case in Montreal, and a switchblade knife that had been “passed down” from the rider’s great-grandfather in Regina.
More common items left in cars include phones, wallets and purses, headphones, backpacks and luggage, keys, clothing, glasses or sunglasses, jewellery, and vapes or e-cigarettes. Interestingly, passports also made the list of commonly lost items.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the most forgetful cities in Canada are Saskatoon, Windsor, Regina, Victoria and St. John’s, Newfoundland. These cities top the list of places where passengers are most likely to leave something behind.
The study also found that the most forgetful day and time in Canada is Sundays at 1 a.m. — perhaps not coincidentally following a Saturday night out. The most forgetful days last year were on major holidays and celebrations.
Uber Canada advises riders who leave something behind to get in touch with the driver by calling them or contacting them through the app. A fee is charged for the return of lost items, which goes entirely to the driver for their trouble.
