Author of article: Safety Defense Coach-Amy Washington. ©2016 Brick Street Safety Academy

Things to do if being followed while driving your vehicle.

It is important to be alert when driving your vehicle due to someone could be following you without your knowledge.

Believe it or not, there are individuals who are driving around looking for easy targets or an easy prey to victimize or attack. Most of these bad guys look for women, young teen drivers, the elderly or just weak or unblocked targets.

It is imperative that when you sit behind the wheel of your vehicle that you are focused and alert not distracted. You must be prepared for anything that may occur on your drive. This does not mean go into a state of paranoia. It simply means just be yourself, be cautious and attentive.

To minimize your chances of becoming a possible victim take note and make changes of any bad habits or things that may distract you while you’re driving.

Possible reasons for distractions:

• Loud Music.

• Cellular Phone Use.

• Talking to others without paying attention to other drivers.

• In denial that anything could happen to you.

• Not using your rear view mirror periodically.

• Driving with straight tunnel vision.

If you think someone is following you …

• Do not panic! Take a deep breath and stay focused.

• Do not drive to your residence. You do not want the bad guy to know where you live.

• Do not take matters into your own hands.

• Do not stop your vehicle to approach the other driver. You do not know what’s in the other driver’s possession such as: a firearm, knife or harmful chemicals.

• Test the other driver by driving slowly.

• Safely change lanes at the last minute to see if the other driver does the same.

• If the driver seem persistent drive to the nearest Police Station or Fire Station to get some assistance. If these locations are too far away, drive to the nearest gas station, fast food restaurant, strip mall—any place where there are other people. Then call 911 for help.

• Do not allow yourself to become a victim!

Hopefully, you’ll never have someone following you. But, if you do, remember to use the provided tips to help keep you safe!

Be Alert, Aware and most definitely BE SAFE!!

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Author of article: Safety Defense Coach-Amy Washington. ©2016 Brick Street Safety Academy