Whether it's the daily commute to the office, picking the kids up from school or just a quick trip to the grocery store, women are on the road alone - or with their children - a lot more these days. In fact, female drivers increased by nearly 40 percent from 1980 to 2000, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

And while they may be logging more miles than ever, a recent survey by OnStar, a provider of in-vehicle safety and security services, reveals that nearly a third of women admit to feeling unsafe while driving alone. The majority of women drivers surveyed also said they worry more about getting into an accident or getting lost while traveling alone with their children than they do about running out of gas or experiencing engine troubles.

OnStar uses wireless technology and Global Positioning System technology to link the car and driver to a call center where advisers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide real-time assistance. OnStar services include automatic air bag notification, stolen vehicle location, emergency services, roadside assistance, remote vehicle diagnostics, remote door unlock, routing assistance, point-of-interest location and online concierge.

While its in-vehicle service is an effective means for ensuring peace of mind for women traveling alone by car, OnStar offers the following easy-to-implement tips:

• Keep an eye on the weather. Unexpected storms can wreak havoc on local roads as well as highways. Always get a weather update before leaving the house, even if you're just going out to run a few errands.
• Make sure your spare tire is in good condition and filled to the proper pressure.
• Outfit your car with a first aid kit; be sure to replenish supplies on a regular basis.
• Put together an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, flares, road atlas, bottled water, energy bars and blanket.
• It may not always be safe to reach for a cell phone while behind the wheel. A hands-free, voice-activated phone is a better and safer alternative.
• Make a plan. Talk to your children about what to do and who to call in an emergency.

For more information, visit www.onstar.com.

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