5 best tips for women driving alone at night
When you’re a woman driving alone, car crashes aren’t the only risk you face. Carjacking, abduction and falling prey to a police impersonator all pose additional hazards for women. Most crimes involving female drivers occur when they are heading to or away from their cars- particularly in parking lots. While it’s important not to be overly fearful, it’s smart to be on the lookout for trouble.
A simple lapse of caution, such as failing to lock your car door before starting your engine is an ideal opportunity for a desperate aggressor to swiftly approach your vehicle from the blind spot in your side view mirror, open your door, pull you from the vehicle, or enter from the passenger side.
Here are the 5 best tips for women driving alone (especially at night).
1. Plan your trip.
Before driving off on an errand, or returning home late, do you already have the route mapped out in your head? This is important because if you’re lost, you’re vulnerable. You should be sure to plan your trip and keep to well lit areas. Don’t drive in the dark if you are not familiar with the surroundings.
2. Be alert
Always be alert for suspicious activity. Don’t stop next to the road for a hitchhiker etc. Park in a well lit parking area instead of somewhere dodgy and don’t linger in your car if you are parked. You are making it easy for predators.
3. Vehicle maintenance
A well-maintained car is less likely to break down – keep your car in good mechanical condition and have it serviced regularly. You should also have your car checked if you frequently drive alone. It will also be wise to learn how to change a tyre etc.
4. Cellphone
Be sure to have a charged cellphone in case anything happens. You should also let people know where your are going and your estimated time of arrival.
5. Never stop for anyone
In this day and age it’s hard to trust anyone. If a police vehicle tries to pull you over, keep on driving until you can pull over in a well-lit area. Should the vehicle following you be genuine police, they will approach you. If they are indeed police and you still feel unsafe you should not exit the vehicle. You have the right to drive to the nearest police station. Therefore, make sure you know the police stations in your area.