According to statistics, 2,000 people in Moscow go missing. A few of such cases are tied with hitch-hiking passing cars. We do it sometimes, when it is too late for public transport or if we are going to be late. Taking into account, that such a trip can be dangerous for health and life, we offer you some hints for those, who is getting into stranger's car.
1. The very first hint is to call a taxi. An official yellow taxi. It may be considerably more expensive, but nothing costs more than health and life. Taxi driver is responsible for his actions to his employer, private taxist is making his job, but is not responsible to anyone. Criminal has his own goals... There are no clear criteria for distinguishing private taxist from criminal. Nevertheless, if you are going to take passing car on some reasons we go on.
2. Peep into a car and take a good look at the driver. If you disbelieve in him, don't get into. You can say anything that you don't like the price or that you have changed your mind. Don't even hitch cars already having passengers. On no account let the driver to take other passengers on the way. It can be a part of holdup scenario, which may cost you life. If the driver is haggling, it is a good sign: he doesn't want anything, but passage money. The driver who easily agrees on small money or offers to give you a lift free of charge is more suspicious.
3. Don't hitchhike alone. Use someone for escort. Ask in a demonstrative way to remember the car, car number and driver. An adequate driver won't be offended. Arrange with your escort to call when you get, nevermind you are going to do it really. The driver should hear this.
4. Take a back seat. Don't lock the door: it lets you to leave the car in a case of danger. Don't get into a car which does not have a door interior handle. Cars of not official taxi drivers are usually old and well traveled, but be attentive: jaloppy can be a turned into a mantrap very easily.
5. Don't fall asleep in the car even if you want to sleep. If you want to sleep very much, do everything not to fall asleep.
6. If you nevertheless are hitchhiking alone, call somebody of your friends and relatives and tell that you are going by car, say the number and car make. Don't be afraid to make the driver to be rattled. You can even simulate the call. Anyway, the driver will know about the third person knowing car make and registration number. That may support your security.
And finally, think once more, before taking a passing car: would not it easier to call a taxi instead of remembering all these things and making your friends and relatives to be anxious.
tata.ru