103
edits
Changes
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
The Hitchhikers like to claim that the #1 danger to a hitchhiker is not violence; it is traffic accidents. As a result, hitchhikers You should make sure they you are standing along a safe portion of road, as far back from the traveled portion of the road as possible (on the unimproved portion of the road shoulder). Make sure that you are visible to drivers from a good distance (100 meters or moreis ideal) to allow them time to safely pull to the side of the road. Wear visible clothes, also while walking on the road!
no edit summary
==Road Safety==
Sometimes, especially but not exclusively at night, drivers will pick up a hitchhiker because they are tired and sleepy, but must get to their destination on time. Make sure you never fall asleep in someones car if you are suspecting this might be the case. Even if you can't find a conversation topic, stay alert.
==Top tips for safety==
* Wear well visible clothes, stand in at a safe spot, be careful while walking on the road.
* If you doubt about the ride offered, turn it down.
* Some say to note the registration number or vehicle model and colour (SMS this to a friend).
* Keep your backpack close to you (i.e. on your lap), so you grab it if you need to get out quickly.
* Wear your most valuable stuff on your body: passport, wallet, money, mobile phone. This way you will keep these items in case you should abandon your bag.
* Aim to leave the vehicle at a safe spot.
It is preferable to choose your drivers. You can ask for rides at gas stations or truckstops. Briefly profile people by their appearance and talk to folks that seem safe/interesting. But always remember that appearances do not guarantee safety.
==Leaving the vehicle early==
When you are on the road, if the situation gets bad for whatever reason and you don't want to be in the vehicle, then find a way to leave. Get the driver to leave you at the next good hitchhiking spot (choose it yourself, don't rely on the driver to choose it for you), or in another safe area such as a city where you can contact people you know, use hospitality exchange organisations, or take public transport.
If you feel uncomfortable, remember that you don't have to stay in the vehicle, and you don't owe it to the driver to travel the full distance you agreed upon. Good get-out tactics include faking travel sickness, or stating that you've changed your mind and want to do something else. Stay calm and be polite but direct, and most drivers will respect your wishes.
==See also==
