How to Avoid Getting Stuck in a Protest While Driving
Whether you agree or disagree with the cause, the reality is that protests can quickly become unpredictable and your first priority is keeping yourself and your family safe.
Scenario: You're driving with your family through a major city and a protest that has been scheduled and over time traffic becomes dangerous and blocked. What could you have done differently and what can you do now?
“This is why I carry.”
I must address this thought process ASAP.
PLEASE - Let’s take a step back for a second and think about that statement.
First - if you’re posting that online, you just announced to the world that you're armed, and potentially willing to shoot someone over a protest - A Constitutionally Protected Activity! That will absolutely be used against you later - legally and socially.
Second - have you actually trained to use your firearm in or around a vehicle? Because bullets do strange things when they hit glass, especially windshields. You are responsible for every round you fire, and a Judge is attached to every round that leaves your gun.
Third - can you articulate, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you believed your life - or your family’s lives - were in immediate danger? If not, you’re opening the door to serious legal consequences.
And in states like New York, you have a legal duty to retreat if at all possible. Look up Daniel Penny.
Bottom line: Avoidance is always the best strategy. If you can plan, reroute, or delay - I urge you to do that. "Smart, prepared people don’t seek confrontation - they avoid it.” Anticipating challenges before they occur, can help you avoid a bad situation all together.
Before You Leave: Use OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) Tools to Plan
Check local news & social media: Look for alerts on protests, marches, or road closures in your area using platforms like:
Twitter/X: Search by city name + “protest” or “march”
Citizen App or Nextdoor: For hyperlocal activity and road updates.
Reddit (r/yourcity): Local subreddits often share protest info in real-time.
Use real-time traffic apps: Google Maps or Waze can show road slowdowns, police activity, and blocked routes. Enable notifications for traffic incidents or hazards.
Route Planning: Distance Is Your Best Friend
Avoid known protest hotspots: Stay away from government buildings, universities, and parks are common protest locations.
Have 2–3 alternate routes: Identify escape paths or reroutes before leaving. Download offline maps in case your signal drops.
Keep distance: Stay far enough from large groups that you could reverse or reroute if needed.
While Driving: Stay Aware, Stay Flexible
Pay attention to foot traffic: If you see large groups forming or people in masks or carrying signs, turn around early - don’t wait to see what happens.
Trust your instincts: If something feels off - it is. Do not push through crowds or blocked streets.
Don’t engage: Never honk, argue, or challenge protestors. That can escalate the situation.
What to Keep in the Car (Just in Case)
Charged phone & car charger
Printed map as backup.
Emergency snacks & water, especially with kids.
Gas tank at least ½ full - traffic jams can drain your fuel fast.
Dash cam: Records incidents in case of legal issues or false claims.
What to Do If You’re Already Stuck
Lock doors and stay calm
Avoid confrontations or shouting through windows
Look for exits - side streets, alleys
Call authorities if you feel truly endangered (not just delayed)
Final Thought: The best way to protect your family is to not be there when things go sideways. A few minutes of OSINT and prep can keep you far from unexpected protests, flash mobs, or road blockades. Prioritize space, time, and situational awareness - especially when you have loved ones in the car.
