Travelling in vehicles you do not control.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH BEFORE BOARDING ANYTHING
That it is what it claims to be Who else is in it Where it is going
WHAT TO PREFER
Recognised operators Vehicles with other passengers Arranged rather than hailed transport, where available
WHAT TO DO WITH HIRED TRANSPORT
Verify the vehicle and driver against the booking before entering.
WHY
Impersonation of booked drivers is a known method.
WHAT TO CHECK
Registration number Driver identity That the trip details match
WHAT TO DO
Share your trip with someone.
WHY
It creates a record and someone expecting you.
WHAT TO AVOID
Boarding a vehicle that is nearly empty late at night Sitting where you cannot easily leave Falling asleep Displaying valuables
WHAT TO DO IF THE ROUTE DEVIATES
Ask, calmly.
WHAT TO DO IF THE EXPLANATION IS UNSATISFACTORY
Ask to stop somewhere populated.
WHY POPULATED
It is safer than any isolated location.
WHAT TO DO IF REFUSED
Draw attention: call someone and describe the situation aloud.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT
Whether the operator is recognised Whether the vehicle appears roadworthy
WHY ROADWORTHINESS
Accidents are a more common risk than crime in many journeys.
WHAT TO AVOID
Overloaded vehicles Visibly unsafe vehicles Drivers who appear impaired
WHAT TO DO
Decline the journey.
