Women driving alone

Many women are nervous about driving alone. Some of the most common fears women share are carjacking, driving through town, driving at night and breaking down - particularly in an isolated or unfamiliar place. The risk of attack is very real for women drivers and many lock their car doors while driving.

Even when faced with the risks, women still need to use their cars to get around. So how can you ensure your safety on the road? You could get a friend, colleague or family member to travel with you but this may not always be possible. Here are some more practical precautions you can take.

Minimise the risk of breakdown

Avoid them if you can. You can do this by making sure you maintain your car on a regular basis.

·         Check your lights, tyres, brakes, and all fluid levels including battery, oil, fuel and water.

·         In the winter months, make sure your car is protected against cold, wet and icy conditions.

·         Always carry a roadworthy spare tyre and light bulbs.

·         Pack a ‘survival’ kit in your boot. Include warm clothes, blankets, a torch, food and water, emergency contact numbers and a mobile phone to call for help.

·         If you are involved in an accident, a notebook and disposable camera (if you don’t have a camera on your mobile phone) will come in handy to document it.

Motorway breakdown code

All drivers, not just women, should know what to do when they breakdown. The Motorway breakdown code offers useful information on what to do and what not to do in the event of a breakdown.

·         Get out of your car and wait on the side of the road if it is safe to do so.

·         Try to stop near an emergency phone. This will help emergency services find you quickly.

·         Do not stop to offer unsolicited advice. A women stranded on the side of the road may feel threatened if approached by a stranger and get back into her car.  And if you look at the first point above, the safest place to wait is outside the car.

Tell someone where you are going

Before you set off on your journey, tell a friend, family member or colleague exactly where you are going, what route you are taking, and how long it should take. If you are delayed en route, stop off and let your contact know. Make sure you stop at a safe parking spot or service station. You could use a hands-free mobile kit but it may distract you while driving and could cause an accident.

Be aware of your surroundings

Carjackers target cars waiting at traffic lights. As a precaution, lock all your car doors when driving in town. Some carjackers will bump your car in an attempt to get you to stop and get out of your car. If this happens, keep your doors locked and don’t get out of your car. Call emergency services and talk to the other driver through your car window until help arrives.

Stranger danger

·         Don’t pick up hitchhikers, it’s just not safe.

·         If you have broken down, don’t interact with strangers. Rather wait for emergency services to arrive and don’t get back in your car. It is dangerous to wait in a stationary vehicle on the motorway.

·         Park in a safe place. Choose a parking spot that is well lit and has CCTV cameras if you can. Park with the driver’s door closest to the pavement so you can get in and out easily.

·         When you come back to your car, have your keys in your hand ready to unlock your door. You are more of a target for thieves if you stand beside your car scratching around in your handbag searching for your car keys.

Car insurance

Taking care of yourself on the road is important and so is taking care of your car. If you’re involved in an accident, the right car insurance will help your get your car back on the road as fast as possible. For a car insurance quote and more information about the types of car insurance available from Direct Line, visit http://www.directline.com/motor/welcome.htm.