Shibuya Photo by Tomas Forgac

Transportation

The most common incidents involving travelers abroad includes a vehicle - whether traffic or pedestrian accident related. Travelers will utilize some type of transportation while abroad. It is important to follow safety precautions when in a vehicle or using public transit. 

Vehicle

  • Travelers are advised to avoid the use of tuk-tuks, boda-bodas, and motorcycle taxis while abroad. 
  • When in a vehicle, keep your valuables out of sight. If traveling with a bag, keep it at your feet or in your lap (with your arms over the bag)
  • Do not drive through any type of barricade, including those put in place by local authorities, by protesters, or if the road is closed. 
  • Even though it is not advised, if you plan on self-driving, you should take the following in to consideration:
    • Understand the local driving laws and driving culture
    • The potential hazards and road conditions
    • The need for spare tires, fuel, and maps 
    • The required documents to carry and what licenses you might need
    • Local insurance policies - be mindful your domestic/U.S. policy likely does not work abroad 
  • Motorcycle and motorcycle powered vehicles are not recommended; however in some locations these are the only mode of transportation. Make sure to wear a helmet. 

 

Pedestrians

  • Where available, always use the sidewalk. Walk facing oncoming traffic (i.e. walk facing north while traffic is driving south). Walk on the most inside part of the sidewalk, furthest side of the roadway, if you can. 
  • When crossing the street, cross at crosswalk or traffic light. 
  • Do not cross where there is a cordoned off median. In some locations it is illegal for pedestrians to use the median to cross the street. 
  • Do not walk along unlit roadways at night. 
  • Be cautious of potholes, trip hazards, and long drop offs (i.e. a ditch) on the sidewalk. 

 

Public Transportation

  • Research your destination before departing and verify if it is advised to use public transit. 
  • If taking a long train ride, sleep in your own compartment with the door locked. 
  • Always keep valuables in sight. 
  • Be watchful for pickpockets. 
  • Limit travel by bus to daylight hours, especially if the route follows mountainous or potentially dangerous terrain. 
  • Research the bus or train company to ensure you are using a reputable company with positive reviews - especially companies not run or owned by the local government. 
  • If contracting a bus company, you should follow the university's recommendations and vetting process. 

 

Rideshares

  • Do your research and use the safest form of transportation in your location (for example, in some locations it is advised to avoid using a rideshare app). 
  • If in a rideshare or taxi, make sure to follow your trip on GPS and provide the person meeting you or a trusted contact with your estimated time of arrival (ETA). Some apps allow you to send your GPS for them to follow along. 
  • Wear a seatbelt. 
  • Do not get into a rideshare or taxi with an unknown passenger, and do not allow the driver to pick up any other passengers you do not know. Do not use the pooled/shared ride option if using a rideshare. 
    • Understand local rideshare and taxi culture before your trip. In some locations, it is very common for taxis to pick up additional passengers. 
  • When being picked up by a rideshare:
    • Confirm the vehicle make and model and that the license plate on the app matches the car that shows;
    • Do not offer your name, instead have the driver confirm the name of the individual they are due to pick up;
    • Provide your ride/driver details with a friend. Share your GPS and allow a trusted contact to follow along; 
    • If arriving somewhere alone, do not make this known. You should act like you have someone meeting you at the drop off location. 
  • If you feel uncomfortable at any time during your ride, do not be afraid to ask the driver to pull over (if in a safe location to do so).
  • Sit directly behind the driver if you are able to.
  • Keep valuables out of sight or at your feet to prevent 'smash and grab'. 
  • Keep the windows all the way if possible.  
  • Do not use unlicensed taxis or rideshares. If someone approaches you to offer a ride, kindly decline and book through a reputable source. 

 

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