Speak Up Scripts
Real things you can say when something feels unsafe
Speaking up does not have to be awkward or confrontational. Sometimes a simple comment is enough to change what is happening. Use these scripts as starting points and adjust them to sound like you.
If You Are the Passenger
When the driver is distracted
"Hey, can you put the phone down for a sec? I'm feeling nervous."
"If you're driving, focus on the road? I want us to get there safe."
"Can you take that later? I'll help with directions."
When the driver is speeding
"Hey, slow it down! I'm not comfortable going this fast."
"We're not in a rush. I'd rather get there safe."
"That speed is stressing me out."
When someone isn’t wearing a seat belt
"Buckle up? I don't want anyone getting hurt."
"Let's all buckle up before we go."
"I won't feel okay until everyone's buckled."
When you want to stop the ride
"Can you pull over? I don't feel safe right now."
"I'm serious. I need to get out if this keeps going."
"NEED ONE MORE TO BALANCE"
If You Are the Driver
Setting expectations before driving
"I'm driving, so phones stay away."
"I need everyone buckled before we go."
"If something feels unsafe, say something."
Responding when a passenger distracts you
"Hold on, I need to focus."
"Keep it down for a minute?"
"Help me out and grab directions instead."
If You Are Riding With Friends or Teammates
Using shared responsibility
"We've got a whole season ahead of us. Let's not mess it up."
"I care about everyone in this car. Let's slow down."
"I don't want this to be how our night ends."
Using humor (if that’s your style)
"Okay, Fast and Furious is over. Let's chill."
"Not trying to be dramatic, but I like my life."
"NEED ONE MORE TO BALANCE"
If You Feel Pressure to Stay Quiet
Need A Heading Here
"I'm not trying to be annoying. I just want us safe."
"I'd rather speak up than regret it."
"I wouldn't say anything if it didn't matter."
One Thing to Remember
You do not need the perfect words.
You just need some words.
Speaking up shows you care about yourself and the people around you. Most drivers appreciate it more than you think.
