CASE FILE: Travel

Subject: Aileen Wuornos Known for: Highway roadside defense Estimated victims: 7 Operational period: 1989–1990

Let’s talk about the open road. It’s liberating, but the interstate is a lawless stretch where the dynamic between driver and passenger can shift in a heartbeat. Whether you’re hitching a ride or picking up a weary traveler, you must establish who is in control before the engine even starts.

First, cabin organization is key. A clean car is a safe car. Keep your interior free of clutter, especially around the driver’s seat. If a roadside interaction goes south and you need to reach for emergency tools—be it a flashlight, tire iron, or a more permanent equalizer—you cannot afford to be fumbling under a pile of trash. Everything should be within arm’s reach, tucked away securely where only you know where to find it.

Second, mind your stops. The interstate corridors offer plenty of scenic turnoffs, but those quiet, wooded areas are double-edged swords. If you must pull over to resolve a dispute or take a break, do so with an exit strategy. Never park facing a dead end. Always keep your vehicle pointed toward the highway, ready for a swift departure. If a passing motorist stops to offer ‘assistance’ and they seem a bit too interested in your cargo, remember that a polite, firm refusal is your best defense. If they persist, you must be prepared to terminate the interaction decisively.

Lastly, handle your transactions with discretion. Traveling light is fine, but always carry enough resources to handle unexpected complications. If you find yourself in a situation where you must relieve a difficult companion of their presence, make sure you reclaim any personal property before parting ways. Once they are out of the vehicle and left behind on the shoulder, do not look back. Your journey is yours alone, and some passengers are simply meant to be dropped off permanently.

File closed. Results pending.