Beware of Dangerous Situations

Carjacking is a serious, traumatic and often violent form of vehicle theft. It is a crime of opportunity that threatens an individual’s personal safety. In some cases, the incident can escalate far beyond the theft of your vehicle.

Carjackers utilize particular conditions to select their victims, targeting vulnerable, unaware and/or unprepared people. It is important to appear confident and be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when driving at reduced speeds and stopping or parking at:

• Intersections controlled by stoplights or signs.
• Garages and commuter parking areas, shopping malls and grocery stores.
• Self-service gas stations and car washes.
• Drive-thru banks.
• Residential driveways and streets where people often get into and out of cars.
• Freeway exits and entry ramps.

The key to avoiding this crime is prevention. You can reduce your risk by considering the following precautions:

• Keep all doors locked and windows up when driving.
• Keep your valuables out of view.
• When possible, do not drive alone in remote or unfamiliar areas.
• Service your vehicle regularly to ensure it is working properly.
• Travel on main roads as much as possible.
• Try to drive in the lane nearest to the road’s center to distance any would-be pedestrian attacker and to avoid being pushed to the shoulder.
• Drive on well-lit streets at night.
• When stopped in traffic, leave enough space between vehicles to allow you to move forward.
• Do not park next to high-profile vehicles, such as vans, that could conceal a suspect.
• When walking to your car have keys in hand, and enter your vehicle quickly.
• If you feel you are being followed by another vehicle, do not drive home.
• Do not pull over if a suspicious driver motions you to do so.
• If you are involved in a minor accident or think your car was hit intentionally, do not check the damage in a remote area – motion the other driver to follow you to the nearest police station or open business to exchange information.
• If you are in an accident, take your keys and purse or wallet with you when you get out of the car.
• Stay as calm as possible.
• Never argue if the carjacker threatens you with a weapon – give up your car.
• Get away from the area as quickly as possible.
• If you can not drive away, draw attention to yourself – honk your horn or yell.
• Take notice of the carjacker’s physical appearance.
• Immediately report the crime to the police.

For more information about carjacking...

The National Safety Council: http://www.nsc.org/resources/factsheets/road/car_jacking.aspx

Philadelphia Police Department: http://www.ppdonline.org/prev/prev_auto_carjack.php