BEATING THE BEHIND-THE-WHEEL BULLIES

The course was a self-help initiative organised by Barrett-Lee to help teach women drivers the basics of mechanics and personal self protection so that they are less likely to be left stranded and vulnerable by the roadside. It included roadside get-you-home tips, defensive driving and how to ward off a possible ‘road rage’ attacker.

Following a recent spate of stories about aggressive driving in the media, more than 50 women (and quite a few men) attending a Safety at the Wheel car workshop evening at Barrett-Lee’s showroom in Byford Road, Sudbury, turned out to learn about driving in today’s stressful conditions.

Karate instructor and self-protection specialist Grant Hicks made the subject of defending yourself from a would-be mugger both entertaining and instructive. He developed the personal safety theme and demonstrated a quick-fire method of foiling a would-be assailant, which involved disarming him – or her – in three easy moves with the aid of everyday objects such as car keys, a torch or a pen.

“Women are perceived as being more vulnerable than men and are seen as an easy target when it comes to road rage,” said Grant. “Also, other people are scared to get involved, even if they see it’s a woman being attacked, so you have to be able to defend yourself.”

The psychology behind dangerous and aggressive driving behaviour and dealing with behind-the-wheel bullies was also explored by ex-Police Chief Inspector Vic Botterill, who gave his audience advice about avoiding the need to use one of Grant’s techniques when faced with road rage. “Mouthing sorry can stop a minor incident turning into road rage,” he said. “If you know you’re wrong, just say it. If it’s gone beyond that and you’re dealing with a violent man, keep your distance – invading his personal space isn’t going to make the situation better.

“Speak calmly and never, ever, smile. That will only pour petrol onto what is an emotional bonfire,” stressed Vic.

The courses took place in Barrett-Lee’s workshop, where volunteers were encouraged to change a car’s wheel under the supervision of their service technicians and were given practical advice including dealing with roadside emergencies, routine car maintenance and checking oil and fluid levels.

Ingrid Kay, a retired school teacher from Sudbury, welcomed Barrett-Lee’s practical approach: “I already knew what I should do if my car broke down by the roadside but now I feel I could cope with most other situations. I don’t think women can afford any longer to ignore the dangers on our roads,” she confessed. “Barrett-Lee’s Safety at the Wheel evening was well organised and great fun too. I feel that I have learned something useful about my car today.

“I certainly found the awareness and self-protection demonstrations useful. I’m sure that classes like this will help people a great deal,” added Ingrid.

Local Police County Support Officer Penny Molkenthin agreed that the practical approach was best. “It’s good that courses like these equip women to take control in these situations and be better able to cope with today’s road conditions. Encouraging car owners to check their cars on a regular basis helps road safety and reduces roadside breakdowns, too.” she added.

If they prove popular, more courses may be held by the dealership and times will once again be geared towards public demand, says Barrett-Lee.