Being a passenger and a good friend

You will spend years as a passenger before and after you drive, often with friends who have only just passed. The choices you make about who you ride with, and what you say in the car, can protect you and them.

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Why young drivers with friends are at higher risk

• RoSPA says that driving with a car full of passengers of a similar age increases the risk of a fatal crash for newly qualified drivers by four times compared with driving alone.
• The US Department of Transportation (NHTSA, 2019) says teen drivers were two and a half times more likely to take risks with one teen passenger than when driving alone, and the risk rose with more passengers.
• RoSPA notes extra pressure when a young driver is the first in a friendship group to pass, or is expected to be the group's taxi, including after events late at night.
• The Isle of Wight Council reports that UK drivers aged 17 to 24 hold only 7% of licences but are involved in 20% of fatal and serious collisions.

Deciding whether to get in

• Before you get in, ask yourself: is this driver rested, sober, calm and not showing off? Road Safety GB quotes a road safety officer asking young people to think, 'Do I want to give my safety to you?'
• Never ride with someone who has taken alcohol or drugs. Gulf News reports that the UAE traffic law allows the arrest of drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs or impairing substances.
• Agree a 'no questions asked' pick-up plan with your family, and keep money or a ride-hailing app ready so you are never stuck. The Car Care module (cc-07) covers ride-hailing safety.
• If you are not sure, say you are getting another ride. A real friend will understand.

Speaking up when you feel unsafe

• NHTSA found young people were less likely than other age groups to speak up when a driver made them feel unsafe. Practising the words in advance makes it easier.
• The Isle of Wight Council suggests simple lines such as 'No need to hurry, I don't want to get home too soon' or 'Can you stop the car, I don't feel very well.'
• You can also be direct and calm: 'Please slow down, I'm not comfortable.' You do not need to make a scene.
• If the driving does not change, ask to be let out somewhere safe and well lit, then call your pick-up plan.

Being the passenger every driver wants

• Wear your seat belt in every seat. Gulf News reports this is mandatory for all passengers in the UAE, including the back seats.
• Help, do not distract: the Isle of Wight Council suggests passengers handle music, navigation and conversation so the driver can concentrate.
• Never film the driver, dare them to go faster or hand them a phone.
• If you are in the front seat, keep an eye on the road and quietly point out hazards the driver may have missed, such as a cyclist or a car pulling out.
• If you are the driver, the same council says to watch for signs that a passenger is uneasy, such as gripping the seat or going quiet, and not to take their concerns personally.

Tiredness: the hidden danger

• Warning signs of drowsy driving include yawning repeatedly, not remembering the last few kilometres, drifting out of the lane and missing signs (District of Columbia DMV).
• The Highway Code says do not start a journey if you are tired, take a break of at least 15 minutes every two hours, and stop somewhere safe if you feel sleepy.
• It says two cups of caffeinated coffee or a short nap of up to 15 minutes can help, but these only buy a short time. The real fix is sleep.
• Turning up the music, opening a window or turning the air conditioning colder do not cure tiredness. If you or the driver feels sleepy, stop.
• Be careful after late events, long exam days and long drives back from the desert or mountains. Sharing the driving or staying over may be the safer choice.