Road Safety Tips For Solo Female Drivers

Insurers see women as safer drivers who are less likely to be in accidents. Even though all motorists need to be alert and cautious, solo female drivers have to be more vigilant to avoid getting into dangerous situations. We might be safer to insure, but women are more vulnerable to criminals. Here are some top tips to help you stay safe when you’re driving.

All drivers, but especially women driving alone, should always consider the threats and possible worst case scenarios, and plan to avoid these as many of these as you can. There are several sensible precautions to take, from maintaining your car to keeping the number of a car accident lawyer handy. 

Vehicle Maintenance

A well-maintained car is a lot less likely to break down. Keep your car in good condition and have it serviced on a regular basis by a reputable garage. 

Before you go on a long trip, have a safety check done. Learn how to do some important tasks yourself, like changing a tire, jump-starting the battery, or changing your wiper blades. The more basic maintenance you can do yourself, the less likely it is you will find yourself stuck needing help. 

Don’t run out of fuel. Get into the habit of filling when the tank is half empty rather waiting for the warning light so you never end up stranded with an empty tank. 

Get any faults diagnosed and fixed, rather than waiting for them to get worse or hoping they’ll just go away. 

Use your vehicle handbook to learn important details like which oil and antifreeze you should use to top up.

Check the condition and pressure of your tires regularly. Damaged or worn tires should be changed. Remember to check the spare as well!

Plan Your Trip

Plan your route if you’re making an unfamiliar journey. Try to stick to well-lit main roads as much as you can.

Try to avoid driving into areas you don’t know after dark. It is easy to get lost and become a target for criminals. 

Drive with a reliable GPS for better safety and tell someone your route and when you plan to arrive. 

Always be ready for delays. Make sure your phone is fully charged and get a car charger, so you can always update anyone who is expecting you and call for help if you need it. 

Put some emergency numbers in your phone, like a roadside assistance service, your car insurance company, and an accident lawyer. 

Safety While Driving

While you drive, you can keep yourself safe by doing these things:

• When you’re stopped in traffic, leave enough room to pull out from behind the car that you’re following. 
• Lock all doors and roll up the windows while you drive. 
• Be aware when you approach intersections that are busy with street vendors, beggars, and newspaper sellers. 
• Keep any valuables, like your handbag, phone, or laptop, out of sight. 
• Pay attention. Drivers are sometimes distracted by their window by someone, while their partner reaches into the car from the other side. 
• If you want to talk to someone alongside the car, such as to ask for directions, open the window only a few centimetres to talk.