Travel by car

 

The first line of defense is to think like the criminals. Carjackers use tactics and deceive victims, so understanding what they do is important.

 

Carjackers try to find or get victims into vulnerable situations.

 

- Stalled or disabled vehicle -Carjackers park on the side of the road or a low traveled area, pretend to have car trouble (usually at night), and wait for someone to stop and offer help. Some even stage an accident and simulate injury. They then force the good samaritan to hand over the keys to their own car.

 

- Panhandling, fundraising, -Carjackers will sometimes pose as a lost person that needs directions, a homeless person in need of money, someone putting flyers on your car window, all examples of how they can get your guard down and take advantage when no one else is around to help you.

 

- Bump and Run- Running into a victim’s vehicle from behind, in a pretend “accident“. Victims get out to assess damage or exchange insurance information, carjackers take your car instead.

 

- Flashing lights- The carjacking driver will flash lights or wave to get a victim’s attention and indicate there is a problem with the victim’s car. When the unsuspecting driver pulls over to inspect their car, the thieves overpower them and take the car.

 

- Trapping you in your driveway or garage-Many carjackers follow victims home. The thieves will block access to a garage door, home or even sneak into the garage as the door closes.

 

- Keep your doors locked and windows up

- Always carry a cell phone

- Avoid driving alone

- Park carefully-near an entrance in a well-lighted area.

- Walk with someone to and from your car. When returning to your vehicle, approach with caution.; have keys ready, glance underneath and inside. If someone is loitering near your car, avoid them and walk to a safe, lighted place.

- Don’t assist other motorists in low traffic areas. Wave or acknowledge as you drive past, noting their exact location and call authorities for help. Stopping can put you in a precarious position.

- Don’t pull over to read a map if lost unless you are in a public place.

- Stay visible. Carjackers choose people who won't likely be seen by bystanders.

- Keep your car in good driving condition and prepared for seasonal situations.

 

Most occur between 8:00 PM and 11:00 PM, half on weekends

27% of all carjackings happen in December.

Parking lots are the most common place, followed by city streets, rural areas, residential driveways, car dealerships, and gas stations, especially in high crime areas.

 

Give up the car. If a carjacker has forced his way into your vehicle or has a weapon, don't try to resist. Give up your vehicle. The car can be replaced, but you cannot.