If your car breaks down, it's nice to know that you can rely on a Kwik Assist mechanic to come to your rescue. Although the latest government figures show crime levels have fallen, fear of crime remains high – especially when offences such as car-jacking get such high-profile media attention.

It's not surprising that women, in particular, feel vulnerable - especially when driving alone at night. So what practical steps can you take to get peace of mind?

Just follow our Kwik Assist guide:

• Reduce the risk of breaking down in the first place by having your car serviced regularly.
• Check your breakdown cover is up-to-date and keep the emergency number handy – this will give you more confidence when you're on the road.
• Before setting off on a long journey, think ahead. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust (www.suzylamplugh.org), the UK's leading authority for personal safety, recommends checking petrol, oil and tyres, weather conditions, carrying a map (so you don’t have to stop and ask directions) and letting people know when you plan to set off and what time you expect to arrive.
• When driving alone, it's a sensible precaution to keep your doors locked and windows wound up, especially at junctions and traffic lights.

But what if the worst happens and you break down?

Try these simple tips:

• Pull as far off the road as possible and put your hazard warning lights on.
• Call your breakdown organisation or the police and let them know if you're travelling alone or with children – you should be given priority.
• If you break down on the motorway, wait - if possible - on the verge where it's safer. The greatest risk here is being hit by another vehicle while you are waiting on the hard shoulder.
• Lock your car, except for the front passenger door, so that you can get back in easily, if necessary.
• Never get into a car with a stranger or try to hitch a lift.

Source: Crime in England and Wales 2001/2002, Home Office, January 2003.

1. Discount applies to the insured car only at any Kwik Fit Autocentre in the UK.

2. Courtesy car is provided with comprehensive cover when the insured vehicle is being repaired at an approved repairer.

3. With comprehensive policies only.

4. With comprehensive cover, you will receive £20 per day for up to 5 days for hire car costs following the theft of your vehicle.