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Women Drivers - Driving Alone

It is, unfortunately, a fact of life that a woman on the streets alone, whether as driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian, is vulnerable to attack. If you are driving there are some basic precautions you can take.

When driving alone

  • Always lock the doors and keep the windows closed as much as possible. Keep your handbag and any valuables hidden.
  • Leave the back seat empty, carry all luggage/shopping in the boot. Do not leave jackets/coats hanging in the back seat as it is not uncommon for these to be stolen from cars stopped in traffic.
  • Remember your horn. If someone approaches your windows, or a car seems to be trying to make you stop, use it. Noise is a proven deterrent to attackers.
  • Don't drive after dark into unfamiliar areas if you can avoid it. It's easy to get lost, appear confused, or stand out as a lone driver in neighbourhoods you don't know. Predators will quickly pick you out as a potential victim.
  • If you think you are being followed drive straight into the car park of the nearest Garda Station, or failing that to a busy public place, e.g. a garage forecourt. Trust your instincts; don't tell yourself that you're imagining things.
  • When stopped in traffic leave enough space to pull out from behind the car in front.
  • Never give lifts to strangers regardless of the situation.
  • Take a mobile phone with you. Be sure it is charged or you have the battery cord to use if necessary and make sure you have enough credit. Carry a pen, paper and a torch with you in your car.
  • Plan your journey and also where possible let the people at your destination know when to expect you, and the route that you are taking.

When parking your car

  • Choose a well-lit car parking spot. When parking in daylight but returning much later consider what the space will look like in darkness.
  • Where possible reverse into a parking space to enable you to drive out. This is particularly useful in multi-storey car parks.
  • Where possible reverse into a parking space to enable you to drive out. This is particularly useful in multi-storey car parks.
  • When returning to your car, have your keys in your hand to avoid having to search through a bag or coat.
  • Always check your car before entering
  • Always be alert in car parks, especially when it's dark. If you are afraid, don't be too shy to ask someone to escort you to your car. Between cars and inside cars, it's easy for someone to hide and wait until an unaware person comes along.

Avoid a car breakdown

  • Before you start, always make sure that your car is in good condition, especially the oil, battery and the tyre pressures regularly.
  • Don't let your fuel tank run close to empty - keep it well topped up.
  • Make sure your spare wheel is in good condition. Consider an automatic latex puncture repair aerosol to get you to the nearest garage.
  • Carry a set of jump leads, some basic tools and a torch.
  • Take a car repair class so you can handle the basics. Learn how to change a tyre, jump the battery, or manoeuvre a series of possible problems. Then you won't have to rely on strangers as much and you may not need to call for help.

If your Car breakdown

  • Make sure you have breakdown cover. This usually means you can freephone reliable help 24 hours a day, no matter where you are. When giving your details to the Rescue Centre tell them that you are a woman on your own. This should give you immediate priority and the nearest Rescue Patrol will if necessary be diverted from another job to get to you. Contact www.insure.ie for a comprehensive car insurance.
  • If possible stop the car in a well-lit spot as close to a public phone as is practical. Keep going until you can stop in the best place. Your safety is of paramount importance, not your car.
  • Consider carrying a mobile phone, and if you have one make sure that the battery is charged.
  • If you have to stop on the Motorway hard shoulder we recommend that you leave the car. A high number of Motorway accidents involve vehicles parked on the hard shoulder; this is much more of a danger to you than potential attack. Stay out of the car with the passenger door open and all other doors locked. This means you can secure yourself inside the vehicle quickly if you are threatened.
  • If you are on a secondary or minor road remain in the car with all doors locked.
  • Be very careful accepting help from a Garage/Mechanic who has been sent out and always check their credentials thoroughly. Talk to them through a closed window until you are sure of their identity.
  • If you do decide to accept help take a note of the registration number and colour of the vehicle which stopped and leave these details in your car before you get out.
  • Carry a personal alarm, and again remember your horn. Don't be reluctant to use them; it is far better to frighten someone who doesn't deserve it than not to frighten a potential attacker.
  • Keep an emergency kit, food, and water with you in the car at all times. If your car breaks down, you won't have to get out and walk for needed items.
  • If marooned, never hitch a lift.