What would you have done? Was I an a**hole?

[Anonymous]

I live in a large condo complex. I was down in the parking lot getting ready to put my toddler in the car. All of a sudden I heard a man's voice and I turned around and a man (kind of shady looking) was standing there. He asked me if I could jump start his car. He said he had the cables and I'm assuming he was going to actually do it himself. I looked behind him and saw another man standing next to the car. It was an old, junky car. I froze. I wasn't sure what to do. Finally I said I was really sorry but I was already late and had to go. I felt awkward and bad about refusing. But I just wasn't comfortable with it. It's hot out and I'm standing there with my one year old, I didn't recognize them and don't think they live there, and jump starting cars kind of freaks me out because I know it can cause damage if it's done wrong. I feel like an ass but I just didn't feel comfortable with it. I sort of think it's wrong to approach a single female with a child and ask something like this. We don't live in a small town or something, this is a city.

What would you have done?

[mamma1993]

Wow!Someone needs a nap.

Quoting TaLeahMB:

You're an idiot. Since when do crimes have a day/night requirement. I was hijacked in broad day light @ 930am beside a crowded McDonalds. Shit happens. We live in a real world, where bad things happen. No need to unnecessarily put yourself OR your child in a potentially dangerous situation. If he had a vehicle, he should have roadside assistance. If he was parked in a condo, perhaps he was there to visit someone whom he could have asked for help. There are several things that could have factored in.

Quoting Anonymous:

I personally think you were an ass. I've been on both sides of it. My car breaking down, and me helping someone else. If it were the middle of the night, that would be one thing. But during the day, in a condo where other people (witnesses) live, I wouldn't be afraid to help someone. Especially in this gruesome heat (if it's anything like where I'm at). He already had the cables, what made him look "shady"?? And, "old, junky cars" are the ones that need a jump. Rarely do I see someone in a brand new Lexus (etc) needing a jump. And if someone that could afford a Lexus DID need a jump, they could afford AAA. I doubt he's going to blow up your car. I think you used that as an excuse. I don't think it's wrong at all to approach someone for help - except to approach selfish people who could care less about helping her fellow man. Your call though.

[-KC-]

I would have done the same.

[H.E.Smama]

I would have given him a jump but you shouldn't feel bad about not.. If he was a good person he would have understood your fears and not been upset about it.