Driving

As car users, councillors should take the same precautions that most car owners do. However, councillors should also be aware that as public figures you should take sensible precautions, including:

1. Regularly check vehicles (tyres, oil, water, washer levels) and ensure that the car is appropriately serviced, maintained and with a valid MOT.
2. Ensure adequate fuel in vehicle and belong to a breakdown organisation.
3. Take precautions in adverse weather (e.g. carry a coat, torch etc.) and avoid driving in extreme weather.
4. Avoid risky areas e.g. dark car parks etc. Where possible, park under streetlights if you will be returning to the car when its dark and avoid isolated areas.
5. Drive with doors locked.
6. If in situation where you are securely inside your vehicle and a person outside is being aggressive and intimidating (for example road-rage or an aggressive member of the public in the street), do not enter into an argument or confrontation, leave the area immediately and if necessary call the police when it is safe to do so.  If another vehicle is involved try to make a note of the vehicle details (registration, colour, make and model).
7. If you suspect that you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station or manned lit building (such as a petrol station) to request assistance.
8. Park vehicle for easy departure i.e. facing the way you want to drive off and reverse park into bays as this can avoid any delays in the event of making a quick getaway.
9. Do not give lifts to strangers.
10. Do not leave valuables in car (e.g. laptop).
11. Do not use mobile when driving.
12. Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, when tired, under medication that causes drowsiness.