Women drivers urged to be safe

Automobile Association (AA) South Africa has issued safety tips for women to use while they drive.

These tips were put together to ensure that women feel safe when they get behind the wheel, but more so now as it is Women’s Month.

Here are tips to consider when driving alone or with children:

•  Firstly, 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 of the car, not on the front or back passenger seats where they can easily be reached

•  Avoid travelling in areas known to have high crime, or which have been identified as smash-and-grab hotspots.

•  Avoid travelling in dimly lit areas at night

•  Ensure you have enough fuel for the trip you are making, including the return trip

•  Keep your car in good condition to avoid unnecessary breakdowns or stops. This includes the tyres (and spare tyre), windscreen and wipers

•  Don’t talk on your cellphone, or be distracted by anything else, while driving. Focus on the road and what is happening around you while driving

•  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 to you, 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.

Details: Automobile Association, 086 100 0234.

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