Road safety for the fairer sex
Staying safe on the roads is one of the 101 things on every woman's daily to-do list. Stay fierce behind the wheel with these helpful tips.
Tomorrow is National Women’s Day, and the Automobile Association (AA) joins South Africa in honouring the women of our nation.
According to the association, while women are still seen as easy targets for criminals, there are ways in which they can minimise the risks.
Some tips to consider while driving:
• Always adhere to the rules of the road and buckle up. This includes putting children in age-appropriate baby or car seats, and ensuring all passengers are also strapped in.
• Keep your handbag, computer and other valuables in the boot.
• Avoid travelling in areas known to have high crime, or which have been identified as smash-and-grab hot spots.
• Avoid travelling in dimly lit areas at night.
• Ensure you have enough fuel for the trip you are making, including the return.
• Keep your car in good condition to avoid unnecessary breakdowns or stops.
• Don’t talk on your cellphone or be distracted by anything else while driving. Focus on the road and what is happening around you.
• Keep moving. Criminals will sometimes bump your car from behind to make you stop and get out, especially at night in quiet areas. If this happens, keep moving and go to the nearest police station.
• Keep your cellphone charged in case you need to use it in an emergency.
• Don’t leave your car unlocked, even for a minute, and pay attention to the risks of signal jamming in car parks.
• If for any reason, you feel unsafe or threatened, go to the nearest police station for assistance.
• If you are going on a long journey, keep family and friends informed of your location at regular intervals.
• Get into the habit of letting people know when you leave for or from the office or an event, and again when you get home.
