Tips for Driving Alone

Tips To Keep You Safer

Many of us can relate to this frightening situation. With nearly one-third of all violent crimes occurring on streets, in parking lots or in garages, it’s no wonder! Statistics show that the victims of these crimes are often individuals driving alone – most often women. Reduce your risk of being victimized by following these commonsense tips!

Buddy Up.

Your mom was right when she told you that there’s safety in numbers! Find an escort to accompany you to your car – a security guard, a coworker or a friend. If that’s not possible, park in an area that is clearly visible to others.

Plan Ahead.

Keep your vehicle in good working order with the fuel tank at least half-filled at all times. Check your tires often. Carry emergency items including flares, blankets, water, a flashlight, jumper cables, nonperishable food and a reflective “Call Police” sign.

Keep a map and spare change (or a phone card) in the glove box.

Consider carrying a cell phone in your car for emergency use. You can preprogram it to activate 9-1-1 with the push of one button. Pull safely off the road before you dial.

Plan your route ahead of time, selecting well-lit, busy roads – even if it adds a few minutes to your trip. Avoid taking shortcuts that pass through unfamiliar or unsafe areas.

Lock Your Car.

Always, even when you’re driving. Experts say that you’re most vulnerable when you are getting into or out of your vehicle. As you approach your parked car, hold your keys in your hand (consider purchasing a keyless entry option). Before you get in, check carefully to ensure that no one is crouched inside or under your vehicle.

Trust Your Instincts.

Before you park and again before you exit your vehicle, look around for suspicious characters. If a situation doesn’t feel right, chances are it isn’t. Stay in your car and move on.

If you approach your parked vehicle and a stranger is too close for comfort, head for a public place and seek assistance.

If you think you’re being followed, stick to busy streets and make frequent turns to confirm that someone is truly in pursuit. Do not drive home. Go to a police or fire station, a busy gas station or a well-populated store.

Make Some Noise.

If you feel you are in danger, lock your doors and sound the horn until the police arrive.

Keep Valuables Out Of Sight.

Never leave your handbag in view, such as on the passenger seat. Better yet, keep all items that suggest that you are a female out of sight.

Stay Alert.

Fight fatigue by getting plenty of rest before you drive. Avoid long drives at night. Nighttime glare can make any driver dangerously sleepy behind the wheel. Take frequent breaks and if you’re still drowsy get off the road and find a safe place to get a cup of coffee or rest.

Give Thumbs Up A Thumbs Down.

Never pick up hitchhikers – no matter how nice they look. Looks can be tragically deceiving!

Watch For Setups.

If your car is bumped from behind and you feel the hit may have been intentional, do not exit your vehicle. This is a popular carjacking technique! Drive to a safe public place or stay in your locked car until the police arrive.

Protect Yourself.

If all else fails and you are confronted by a criminal, comply by handing over your purse, your keys – whatever – and do it quickly. Your personal safety is far more valuable than your possessions. If someone forces you to drive your car in an abduction, try to attract the attention of the police by turning off the lights or driving as if you were intoxicated.

If Your Vehicle Breaks Down

• - If your vehicle is running, continue driving with care (slowly on a flat tire) until you reach help.
• - If your car completely stops or won’t maintain a safe speed on a busy roadway, pull to a safe stop on the shoulder and activate your emergency flashers.
• - Use your cell phone to call for roadside assistance or the police. If you don’t have a phone, tie a white or yellow cloth to your antenna to alert police, then stay in your car with the doors locked.
• - If you use a phone to call for help, be sure to state that you are a woman traveling alone.
• - Do not get out of your vehicle or raise the hood – use a “Call Police” window sign instead.
• - If a stranger comes by and offers to help, politely ask for identification, then ask the individual to call for assistance. Should the stranger be mechanically inclined and you feel he or she can help, unlock your hood from the inside. Don’t get out of your car.
• - Be extremely suspicious of men in civilian clothes driving unmarked cars who show you what appears to be a police badge. Stay in your locked vehicle and request that a marked police car be called.

Our legal advisors asked that we include the following disclaimer :
The advice contained on these pages is offered as a guide only. It is understood that individual circumstances will dictate your actions, and that it may not be possible or practical to follow all the suggested points on every occasion.