Guidelines for women driving alone

The risks of driving alone can be exaggerated – be sensible about your safety but don't be afraid to drive on your own.

A well-maintained car is less likely to break down – have yours serviced regularly by a reputable garage.
Making regular basic checks on the car yourself will give you confidence. Check that the battery fluid is not low and that the tyres are not bald, and make sure that the lights, indicators, wipers and screen washers work. Keep your headlamp lenses and windscreen clean, and your tank reasonably full.
Carry useful items such as jump-leads, towrope, fire extinguisher, car jack and a warning triangle.
Keep a coat, sensible shoes, blanket, torch, and phonecard/money in the car.
Have an ice scraper and de-icer spray handy in winter.
Plan your route if the journey is unfamiliar, and keep to well-lit main roads. Carry a road atlas.
Tell someone your route, and what time you expect to arrive.
Keep valuables, briefcase, handbag and mobile phone out of sight.
In town, lock the car doors and keep the windows and sunroof only partly open.
When stopped in traffic, leave enough space to pull out from behind the car you are following.
If someone tries to get into your car, attract attention by sounding your horn or a personal alarm.
You MUST stop for the police. If you are worried, ask for identification through a closed window – and keep the engine running until you are satisfied.
Any motoring organisation patrol or garage mechanic sent to help you will carry proof of identity. Ask to see this before unlocking your car.
NEVER give lifts to strangers.
Beware of anyone who signals that there is something wrong with your car, unless you know that they are right and it is dangerous to drive on.
If you think that you are being followed, drive on to the nearest police station or busy place to get help.

When parking:

In car parks: back into the space so that you can drive away quickly. Note which floor and area you have parked in, and have your keys ready when you return.
On-street: choose a busy, well-lit place, and have your car keys ready as you return to the car.