How To Stay Safe On Car Journeys
Lisa from The Suzy Lamplugh Trust gives us some tips on staying safe on car journeys. Whether you breakdown, involved in an accident or trying to park; this short tutorial will make sure you are safe on car journeys.
-
Step 1:
-
Plan
-
Look at a map and plan your route. Keep the map handy.
Let someone know where you are going.
Take your mobile phone.
Make sure you have enough petrol and oil. Check the tyres and a car kit containing any tools you may need.
Your car should be in good working order so have it regularly serviced. It's wise to consider taking out break down cover.
-
Step 2:
-
Setting off
-
Keep valuables out of site, under a seat or in the trunk.
Lock all doors, and keep windows closed in busy areas.
-
Step 3:
-
If you feel threatened
-
If someone tries to attract your attention do not respond. Consider whether it is genuine, it might be more helpful to drive on a seek help.
If you think you are being followed drive to a busy area such as a police, fire or ambulance station, or garage forecourt or pub.
If someone forces you to stop, keep doors locked and call the police. If you can, reverse and sound your horn.
-
Step 4:
-
Breakdowns
-
Pull of the road and switch on your hazard lights
Call the police or your breakdown service. If you don't have a mobile phone walk to the nearest public telephone.
-
Step 5:
-
Motorway breakdowns
-
Pull onto the hard shoulder, switch on hazard lights.
Never attempt to cross the carriageway.
Call the police or your breakdown service. If you don't have a mobile on you walk to the nearest Emergency phone, stand behind it while you speak.
Give details, and let them know if you have children with you or if you are alone.
If anyone pulls over to help, get back in the car and speak to them through the window.
Some motorway accidents involve a collision with a vehicle on the hard shoulder, so decide whether you feel safest in the car or on the verge. If so lock all the doors except the passenger door.
When help arrives, check they have your details.
-
Step 6:
-
Always Avoid
-
Never give, or accept a lift from a stranger.
-
Step 7:
-
Parking
-
Think about when you next need to return to the car. Avoid parking in poorly lit areas. Park away from barriers and near and exit if you can.
Reverse into a space if possible
Keep all valuables out of sight
Make sure you windows are up and lock your doors immediately.
If you feel unsafe get someone you know to walk you to your car and then drop them off. -
The best defence is common sense.
