Life on the road brings opportunities to connect with incredible new people. Some may become trusted friends or romantic partners. But it’s important to remember that not everyone is safe. If you’ve just met someone who seems trustworthy, it’s entirely responsible and reasonable to vet them for safety before spending time alone with them in the privacy of your travel rig.

In the United States, convicted sex offenders (both those who offended against adults and children) are legally required to register in a public, searchable database to promote community awareness and safety. The link for the National Registry can be found here or on the link to the left. 

While registration is required, sex offenders are not obligated to disclose their history in social settings. If someone resists sharing basic identifying information, like a driver’s license, for the sake of helping you feel safe, that may be a signal to reconsider whether it’s safe to be alone with them.

Not all unsafe individuals are registered sex offenders. For example, someone with a history of domestic violence may have criminal records—such as assault and stalking charges—that reflect harmful behavior, even if they’re not listed in a sex offender registry. Many states also modify assault charges to identify if an assault also involved circumstances of domestic violence. While access to public court records varies by state, some jurisdictions provide open access to criminal charges and convictions. One additional tool for vetting unfamiliar individuals is Judy Records, a free nationwide search engine that allows users to instantly search millions of U.S. court cases. Other states offer freely searchable databases such as Court View Alaska and Arizona Public Access Records.   

Please note that this database may not include information from states that prohibit public access to court records. Also consider that just because a person is not convicted of a crime or is a registered sex offender, does not mean that they are safe. Follow your gut and use your best judgement out there in the wild. Be especially mindful when you are travelling alone. 

In the spirit of social safety, remember that every new connection begins with unfamiliarity. Just because someone is a stranger doesn't mean they are unsafe—but uncertainty is part of the terrain when you're on the road and we all need to be realistic about measuring for risk and creating the intentionality to guard against becoming a victim. Having a simple plan for how to protect yourself can transform fear into confidence. Making a habit to share a safety plan with trusted people doesn't restrict spontaneity- but protects it. The checklist below isn’t about assuming the worst; it’s about honoring your safety and trusting your instincts while giving space for healthy connection. Ask yourself:

• Do I know my vehicle's license plate if I need to (or someone who has my back needs to) signal the authorities?

• Do I have a written description of my travel van or rig?

• Have I had a conversation with my new acquaintance about what I need to feel safe, and do I know their legal name?

• Do I know how to leave or disengage if I feel uneasy? (What's my 'escape hatch'?)

• Is my rig secure and ready for a quick exit?  

• Am I checking in with my instincts, not just my hopes? 

• Have I asked someone to check in with me by a certain time and have I told them where I am, where I plan to go, and who I am with?

• Does someone I trust with my life have access to my location services, or know how to reach me if I go quiet?

To explore Ruth’s capabilities, follow the link and copy this message into the chat:

Hi Ruth, I'm testing your service to prepare for my safety and in case I might need it in the future. I am not in any kind of danger right now, I just want to try this service out for my own education and awareness. Can you roleplay a scenario with me if someone were to tell you: "I don't know exactly where I am. My partner just attacked me last week, and we've been arguing really badly today. They just left me on the curb an hour ago and I've been walking this whole time. I'm at some gas station that I think is somewhere outside of Denver, but I'm not sure which direction or how far. I know I'm in Colorado. We were living out of our camper van, but they drove off with it. I can see mountains and I'm on what looks like a highway. There's a sign that says something about Route 70 nearby. I don't have anyone in this state I can call. What are my options?"

• 988 Crisis Line: available for all kinds of wellbeing challenges, from mental health to substance abuse and sexual misconduct, 988.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: for all kinds of relational abuse, 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or text "START" to 88788. Visit Online.

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: supporting sexual harassment, misconduct, abuse, assault,1-800-656-4673 (HOPE) Chat Online

• National Domestic Shelters Database

• National Parent and Youth Helpline: supporting struggling parents and youth, 1-855-427-2736