Protecting Yourself in the Car
By Marlene Gundlach | July 14, 2008
Everyone on the road is in possession of a 3,500 pound weapon. There are things you can do to alleviate your chances of encountering violence on the open road.
Road Rage
Road rage is a term coined in the 1980s to describe angry drivers who, as a result of their aggressive behavior, cause accidents. Essentially, road rage is an aggressive driver going “over the top.” An example of road rage may occur after a negligent driver cuts off another driver on the road or neglects to use a turn signal. These careless actions send some people off the deep end, resulting in aggressive tailgating, headlight flashing, obscene gestures, and verbal abuse.
When confronted on the road by an aggressive driver, whether you instigated the situation or not, your best bet is to not react. Don’t make eye contact or adjust your driving by speeding up or swerving suddenly. Some individuals may see this behavior as confrontational and may react with increased violence. If a driver continues to harass you or follows you, drive to the nearest police or fire station, or to another heavily populated area to get help. Never drive directly home because someone can easily follow you.
The best advice is to avoid aggressive driving, period. This includes tailgating, lane blocking (if someone wants to pass you, let them), turn signal use, as well as blaring your horn without cause. There are drivers on the road who are mentally and emotionally disturbed! You never know when an individual will pull up behind you. Moreover, remember that many people are driving with guns and other weapons in their vehicles. Keep your cool and be courteous while sharing the road.
Getting in and out of Your Car
Whether you are parking in your driveway or the parking lot of the mall, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Before you get out of the car, look around for someone who may be lurking behind your car. Take notice of who is parked around you. Some will suggest not parking next to large vehicles in lots because they can offer a shield should someone try and attack you. When you park at home, also look out for anyone on the sidewalks or strange cars parked in front of your house.
Always lock you car when you exit, even when parked at home. Using your remote to lock and unlock your doors will also keep you from fumbling with keys, allowing you to be more alert to what is happening around you. It is recommended that you do not unlock the doors too far in advance since the lights and horn can signal an attacker as to which car is yours. It can also give them an opportunity to climb into your opened vehicle before you get there. Wait until you are close to your car before using the remote unlock. Some remotes also have a panic button on them. Pushing the button will sound the horn and the lights may flash. This is an easy way to draw attention to yourself if you feel you might be in danger.
Keeping valuables in your car also makes you more vulnerable to a break-in. Don’t leave cell phones or handheld gaming systems visible. When out shopping, hide packages in the trunk or in an under floor storage area if available. If you must leave packages out in the open, take along a blanket to cover them up. Don’t give someone a reason to break into your car.
Car Trouble
If you become stranded due to car trouble, you are putting yourself in a vulnerable position. Be sure to have your cell phone with you and keep it fully charged at all times. If you can afford it, memberships in roadside assistance programs, such as AAA, are helpful. No two situations are alike, so if you break down you have to evaluate your position and make decisions accordingly.
In the event your car breaks down, the first thing you need to do is call for help. Roll up the windows and lock the door as you call for help. If someone approaches your car to offer asistance, it is best to only crack the window to talk with them. If they insist on giving you a ride, respectfully decline, but ask if they will call the police if you have not already called. You should never get out of your car to talk with someone, especially if you are in a deserted area.
If you know help will arrive soon, and you are not in a populated location, it is wise to stay with your car and wait for help to arrive. Weather conditions may also warrant that you remain in your vehicle. You may choose to walk to get help if you are not able to place a call for help. If you are close to a store or gas station, and it is daylight, walking is probably a safe, viable option.
To avoid break-downs, keep up on the maintenance of your car. Be sure you always have enough gas and that your car receives the necessary tune-ups as recommended by the manufacturer. Have your tires checked regularly for weaknesses or impaled items such as nails. Keep your car stocked with the following to help you be better prepared:
Items to change a flat tire (make sure you have someone teach you how to use them!)
- Gas container
- Flashlight
- Flares
- Umbrella
- Basic tools
- In the winter: blanket, gloves, and a hat
- Walking shoes
- A sign that reads: “Need help - call police,” to place in your window.
Decision making and being prepared are a big part of staying safe; do not put yourself in a dangerous situation.
Getting Lost
Today’s technology makes it easier than ever to find your way. Make good use of Internet map searches so you know where you are going before you head out. Always keep a map in your car in case there is construction or another distraction, that causes a detour. GPS units are helpful if you do a lot of traveling. The key is to plan ahead so you do not have to exit your vehicle to get out and ask for directions in an unsafe area. Again, some planning and forethought will prevent putting yourself in a precarious situation.
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