What did people do before cell phones? Well, they survived. But here's a woman's perspective (well, this woman, I don't speak for all women).
I feel that I've very self-sufficient. I can put gas in my own car, change a tire and read a map. I have a very good sense of direction and excellent memory so I seldom EVER get lost. I also hold a black belt in tae kwon do; although quite out of practice, I still remember my self-defense and move through the motions regularly.
All that said...
-when the mechanics put lug nuts on with a hydrolic tool, I can't get them off so when that's the case, changing a tire is difficult at best.
-there are car problems other than flat tires that I can't fix. I'd hate to have to depend on the kindness of strangers to get me to a safe place.
-yes, I feel that I can defend myself better than most women, but I'm not Chuck Norris. Even Chuck Norris isn't Chuck Norris. If I ever find myself stranded in an unsavory location, I would like to be able to contact someone quickly.
-this is an unusual case, but I have a special needs child and sometimes he needs to get in touch with me right away. I'm usually near a phone but if I'm in the car or shopping, this is his only means of reaching me.
I agree with Cap - you have inconsiderate friends. I hope that my friends and family would vouch for me that I'm not guilty of those types of rudeness. Cell phones are a tool and it's the user who abuses it or uses it wisely.