Driving Safety

Whether driving your own vehicle, a state-owned vehicle, or a rental car, it is important to practice safe driving habits. In addition, you should use the following driving safety tips while traveling.

• Always park in well lighted areas. Before exiting your car, check for suspicious persons in the area and always lock the doors. Also, backing into a parking space makes for a quicker, easier exit.
  
  
• Always have your keys in your hand when approaching your vehicle. Look underneath the car while walking toward it. Before entering, check both the front and rear seats for intruders.
  
  
• Keep doors locked and windows closed (if possible) while driving.
  
  
• Do not stop at an isolated place for any reason.
  
  
• Plan your trip in advance. If you become lost, do not broadcast it. Be very discreet and careful when asking for directions.
  
  
• When traveling to unfamiliar locations you should: 1) be sure to leave a complete and detailed itinerary with your office and/or family. If possible, call to announce safe arrival at each destination. 2) Carry maps with routes clearly marked. 3) Travel only on main roads and during daylight hours as much as possible.
  
  
• If someone "bumps" you from behind (when stopped at a light, for example), do not get out of the car if you are at all suspicious. Motion to the other driver to follow you to a police station. This is also a good procedure to follow if someone you do not know seems to be following you in a strange city.
  
  
• When renting a vehicle, ask for one with nothing on it to identify it as a rental vehicle (i.e., special license plates, company stickers, etc.). Obvious rental cars will usually identify the individual as an out-of-town traveler.
  
  
• When at a rental car counter, write all of your information down so the rental agent does not ask for it aloud (i.e., name, phone number, address, hotel, etc.).