As a passenger, if you feel unsafe- speak out. It could save your life.
Research shows that that the frontal lobe of the brain does not fully develop until around 25 years of age; this is the part of the brain that is responsible for things like regulating your impulses, risk management and social awareness…so by identifying some of these key areas where young people may have to work harder – we aim to reduce the number of young people involved in crashes.
Did you know?
193 car occupants aged 16 to 24, have been killed or seriously injured on Kent’s roads in the past three years.
The aim of Speak Out…
To contribute to casualty reduction in Kent by empowering car occupants aged 16-24 to ‘speak out’ if they feel unsafe when they are in a vehicle.
‘Speak Out’ presents young adults with coping strategies which they can use to remove themselves from unsafe in-car situations, whether they are the driver or the passenger.
Did you know?
Many 16-to-24 year olds in the passenger seat would rather keep quiet and not tell the driver to be careful, even when they feel unsafe.
Kent County Council Safer Road User Team Leader said:
For those who are passengers of young drivers, I encourage you to look carefully at the person in the driving seat.
Before closing your door, ask yourself: ‘do I want to give this person my safety?’ because as soon as you shut that door, the driver has complete control of what they choose to do next.
More young drivers are becoming aware that their passengers don’t enjoy reckless driving and that those who drive badly are viewed by their passengers as poor and potentially lethal drivers.
Advice for Young Drivers & Passengers
Passengers
Do what it takes…
If you find yourself in a dangerous situation as a passenger, why not use some of the ideas below to help get yourself out of the situation.
- “No need to hurry mate, I don’t want to get home too soon.”
- “Can you stop the car, I don’t feel very well.”
- “I really need some air, do you mind stopping?”
- “I feel sick, can you let me out?”
- “I’ve just seen someone I need to catch up with, can you stop?”
- “I forgot I need to pick something up, can you pull over?”
Drivers
Ever get the odd remark about how badly you drive? Friends and family comment on your lack of ability? If you ever feel that your passengers are worried, do something about it.
- Speak out works both ways: if your passengers are distracting you, be prepared to say something. You can stop the car if they choose not to listen.
- Good drivers notice when their passengers are uneasy: if they are holding on when you take a corner, or go a bit quiet, it could be down to your driving.
- Research shows that people find drivers who make them feel safe more attractive; why not impress your date with driving skills as smooth as you are?
- Try not to get offended: it is hard for people to challenge a driver and they were probably nervous about speaking out.
- Let your passengers take charge of the music, navigation, or conversation to help you concentrate on driving.
Did you know?
77% of young people found that the ‘Speak Out’ campaign either reinforced or encouraged them to say something.
Understand the responsibility
Passengers can be a massive distraction to a driver – if you feel like the passengers in your car are distracting you and it is having an impact on your driving, it is your responsibility to say something.
Did you know?
You are far more likely to be involved in a crash if you are being driven by a 17-24 year old.
Stay in control
Avoid drinking, taking drugs and then driving. Your passengers won’t feel safe if you are on your mobile whilst you’re supposed to be concentrating on driving.