Driving and Transporation

Road traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for US citizens in foreign countries, and the majority of these victims are bystanders who are not in vehicles.

Under no circumstances should a student participating on a CGIS program drive other students. Students participating on a CGIS program are strongly discouraged from operating a motor vehicle, including scooters or motorbikes, for even a short period of time. Students are very susceptible to driving-related accidents because they are unfamiliar with local laws, signs, driving patterns, and the general layout of the roads.

Students can find country-specific road safety information on the US Department of State's Country Specific Information pages.

Transporation Safety Tips

• Research transporation safety before arrival, from resources like OSAC.
• Avoid travel late at night. If travel at night is necessary, opt for a reputable cab company over public transit.
• Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are not universally safe. Do reserach before using them abroad.
• Always wear a seatbelt. 
• Walk on pedestrian marked sidewalks and crossings.
• Do not hitchhike.

Check the Avoiding Crime tab for more detailed information on safety on public transit.

Additional transporation tips and information can be found on the Association for Safe International Road Travel website and on the U.S. State Department website.