Protecting Yourself on the Road

Here are some tips on how to avoid accidents and for playing it safe if you do get into a crash. Police suggest you clip these tips and keep them in the glove box of your car.

* Always keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. Increase this distance during rain or fog.

* Allow rude or impatient drivers to pass. Stay clear of weaving or reckless drivers, and avoid passing them.

* Do not react to a driver who has become hostile. Avoid making eye contact or gesturing.

* After an accident, if there are no serious injuries and if it’s possible, move your vehicle to a safe area such as a service station or well-lit parking lot. Let the other driver know that you are doing so he or she doesn’t think you are fleeing the scene.

* Conceal and secure any valuables before getting out of your vehicle.

* Write down the names, addresses and phone numbers of all people involved and all witnesses. Also write down the descriptions of the other vehicles, including their license plate numbers.

* Call the local police if there are injuries, if traffic is obstructed, if there is serious damage to either car or if the other driver appears intoxicated.

* Notify your insurance company when necessary.

Preventing car thefts

To reduce the likelihood of your car being stolen, police offer the following suggestions:

* Consider the installation of an ignition “kill” switch or a fuel-cutoff valve. These range in price from $30 to $75 and are recommended even for older cars.

* Avoid parking in large underground or covered parking areas at night. They usually provide a risk-free environment for car thieves. Whenever possible, park where there is good lighting and in a spot that is visible to witnesses.

* Do not store valuables in your car, even in the trunk. Thieves often will force open trunks, especially at shopping center and beach parking lots.

* Think about installing an alarm system that detects glass breakage to help protect your car’s stereo. Make sure that you can adjust the sensitivity so that false alarms will be eliminated.

Source: Ventura Police Department