My car broke down last Thursday night. Lucky me, the casa is just a phone call away. It’s the second time that this happened in a month. The last time that the car overheated was at dawn on my way to work. The air-con went off and I heard something inside the engine, the temperature gauge was on the red. I didn’t have a clue what engine trouble the car experienced. Hence, I could not McGyver myself out of the situation. My instinct was to get the car to the safest place possible. I was worried to get stalled in the middle of the road. First, there are just many criminals around, from kidnappers to riding-in-tandem. Second, a speeding car, or bus might ram into the car without the proper warning device. “Bring the car to a gas station,” I thought. I believe my Hail Mary’s worked because I still had presence of mind to plot out where the gas stations are and bring the car to safety.
I consider myself a skilled driver, thanks to my brothers who taught me to drive like a man. But when a car breaks down, I am a damsel in distress. Sure, road preparedness is not gender-specific, but admit it or not, women are more vulnerable drivers. Here are some pointers for women drivers out there to avoid being caught in compromising situations.
Take care of your car. Check your Blowbag, an acronym for brakes, lights, oil, water, battery, air and gas. Let the gasoline station attendant check your air, water and tires, no matter how much of a rush you are in. Schedule your regular tune-ups. And when you sense something unusual about the car, whether it banks to the left or right, if the steering wheel wiggles, whatever, have your car checked, promptly. My mistake, because of my busy schedule, I waited for a couple of days more to bring my car to the mechanic. It’s not worth the risk.
Familiarize yourself with the car, especially if you’re driving it for the first time. Know the controls for the lights, the windshield wipers, the horn, the fuel lever/cap and also the automatic locking system. Where’s the spare tire (and is there a separate key for it)? Drive around to familiarize yourself with the clutch, acceleration and maneuverability.
Know what to do in case of a breakdown. If possible, drive your vehicle to a well-lit area and towards the shoulder before calling for help. Stay in the car and lock your doors.
Be ready with your tools, even if you can’t do the dirty work yourself, someone might give an extra hand. But be warned not to trust just anyone. Honk if there is danger.
It’s also important to have a warning device for approaching vehicles, to avoid further accidents. If replacing tires, drive car to the shoulder. Be careful of passing vehicles. And when successful, bring your car to the nearest garage to be checked. And your bad tire vulcanized. It may be wise to join motoring clubs that provide towing services and emergency assistance.
Have enough cash and your mobile phones charged with the number of your mechanic saved in your phone memory.
Before your journey, plan your route and inform people when to expect you. Stick to the main roads and avoid traveling alone at night. Always lock your doors and valuables out of sight. Put your bag on the floor.
Be careful of people signaling you that there is something wrong with your car. When parking, park in well-lit areas. Always have your keys ready before getting into your car. Hide items in your car that reveal you are a lady driver.
(Source: Is4profit)