Your Guide to traveling safely
Imagine this: You’re running late, it’s getting dark, and just as you’re about to give up on finding a ride, a kind-looking stranger offers you a free lift. Sounds tempting, right? But before you hop in, pause for a moment—because while there are still good people in the world, there are also risks that come with accepting rides from strangers.
The idea of getting a free ride can be convenient, but it also raises serious safety concerns. In this post, we’ll discuss what you should know before accepting a ride from someone you don’t know. By the end of this, you’ll have practical tips to help you make safer choices while on the road.
1. Not Every “Good Samaritan” Has Good Intentions
One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that someone offering a ride is always acting out of kindness. While some people genuinely want to help, others might have ulterior motives. There have been countless reports of crimes involving strangers offering rides—ranging from theft to more serious dangers. Always keep your guard up and don’t assume that someone is trustworthy just because they appear friendly.
2. Trust Your Gut Instinct
Ever had that uneasy feeling in your stomach when something just doesn’t seem right? That’s your intuition talking. If a person or situation feels off, listen to that inner voice. If something feels strange about the way someone is offering a ride, don’t hesitate to decline. Your safety is far more important than hurting someone’s feelings.
3. Ask Yourself: Do You Have Other Options?
Before accepting a ride, consider your alternatives. Can you wait for a bus? Is there a rideshare service available? Can you call a friend or a trusted family member? Free rides might be tempting, especially if you’re in a hurry or stranded, but it’s always safer to explore other reliable options first.
4. Assess the Stranger Offering the Ride
If you must accept a ride, take a moment to evaluate the driver. Ask yourself:
- Do they look and act trustworthy?
- Are they insisting too much that you take the ride?
- Do they seem nervous or overly eager?
- Is their car in good condition, or does it look suspicious?
People who genuinely want to help won’t pressure you or make you feel uncomfortable. If something seems off, walk away.
5. Look at the Vehicle Before Getting In
A simple glance at the car can tell you a lot. Look for the following red flags:
- No license plates or mismatched plates
- Dark-tinted windows that make it hard to see inside
- Broken doors or missing handles (especially inside!)
- A strong smell of alcohol or drugs
If anything about the car looks sketchy, don’t get in. It’s better to decline than to put yourself in an unsafe situation.
6. Keep Your Phone Handy and Share Your Location
If you decide to take the ride, make sure your phone is fully charged and keep it in your hand (not in your bag). You can do the following:
- Share your live location with a friend or family member.
- Send them the car’s license plate number.
- Make a quick call and say something like, “Hey, I’m on my way. I’ll be there in 15 minutes.” This lets the driver know that someone is expecting you.
- If you feel unsafe, send a discreet text or call emergency services.
7. Sit in the Back Seat
If you ever have to take a ride from someone you don’t know well, always sit in the back seat. This gives you more control over the situation—you can exit quickly if needed, and it’s harder for someone to grab you. Avoid sitting in the front, especially if you feel unsure about the driver.
8. Keep a Low Profile—Don’t Share Personal Information
A friendly conversation is fine, but be mindful of what you share. Avoid giving details like:
- Where you live
- Where you work or go to school
- Your full name or social media handles
Giving too much information can make you a target for unwanted attention or even future harassment.
9. Be Ready to Exit If Something Feels Off
Sometimes, you may realize midway through the ride that something isn’t right. Maybe the driver is taking an unfamiliar route, or they start asking uncomfortable questions. If this happens:
- Stay calm but alert.
- If you’re in a safe area, ask them to stop and let you out.
- If they refuse, loudly demand to be let out or call emergency services.
- Look for opportunities to get out safely—traffic lights, gas stations, or areas with people around.
10. Know Basic Self-Defense Tactics
You don’t need to be a martial arts expert, but knowing basic self-defense can give you confidence. Here are a few quick tips:
- Always have a key, pen, or small object in hand that can be used to defend yourself if needed.
- If you’re grabbed, aim for sensitive areas—eyes, nose, throat, or groin—to break free.
- Yell “FIRE!” instead of “help”—it draws more attention.
- Trust your instincts and act fast if you feel unsafe.
11. Learn from Others’ Experiences
With social media, it’s easier than ever to hear real-life stories from people who have faced dangerous situations when accepting rides from strangers. Take the time to read about these experiences—they often contain valuable lessons that could help you avoid similar risks.
12. When in Doubt, Say No
It’s okay to say no—even if the person offering a ride seems nice. Your safety is worth more than a free ride. If something doesn’t feel right, politely decline and find another way to reach your destination.
While not every person offering a ride has bad intentions, the risks are too high to ignore. Always prioritize your safety over convenience. By staying aware, trusting your instincts, and following these precautions, you can avoid unnecessary dangers.
So next time a stranger offers you a ride, pause and ask yourself: Is this really worth the risk? Because in the end, nothing is more valuable than your safety and well-being.