Trudy and Winston were a retired couple who loved to travel. They traveled many places including overseas. The type of travel they liked most was the open road right here in the good old United States of America. They owned a sports utility vehicle and loaded it up for the new destination.

They saw the sights and made stops along the way to rest. They frequently stopped at the roadside rest stops where they used the facilities and got information on the area. One week they were on a trip to Florida. It was about an 800 mile drive with plenty of rest stops in between.

About 200 miles into the trip they decided to stop and get some rest. They pulled into a rest stop alone, on a secluded highway. There were other people there, so they felt pretty comfortable. A wooded area surrounded the rest stop, which was not out of the ordinary for that part of the country.

They parked the vehicle got out and made sure it was locked. Trudy had to use the restroom and asked the attendant where it was. She said its on the backside of the building. Be careful there are some strange bugs back there said the attendant. Trudy hated bugs and was not sure if she wanted to use it. Mother nature told her she better go before they got back on the road.

She went into the restroom, and as she was coming out a man knocked her down, snatched a pearl necklace off her neck, and ran into the woods. It took her a moment to regain composure. By that time Winston was coming around the corner looking for her. He found her, as she was rising from the ground. She told him what happen he was furious, but thankful that it was not worst. They reported the incident but do not let it spoil their trip.

Roadside rest stops are there for our convenience. They save us the trouble overextending when we need a break from driving. There have been many crimes committed at some of these stops. They include rape, robbery, and even murder. It is in your best interest to plan your trip and make your stay at road stops as brief as possible. Be aware of your surroundings at rest stops.

If the facilities are too risky, go to the next small town and rest there. If you do use the restroom have someone stand outside and wait for you to come out. When you leave your vehicle make sure it is locked. Put all important packages in your trunk. Never allow kids or pets to roam free at rest stops. They might cause a distraction, which can take your attention away from other areas. The break you take at a rest stop can be safe with a little precaution.