Carjacking remains a prevalent crime in this country. Secretary of State Jesse White advises motorists to take precautions to minimize the risk of becoming a victim of this terrifying offense.
Q. What schemes are commonly used by carjackers?
A. Pretending to be a stranded motorist, faking an accident or deliberately becoming involved in an accident with the intended victim.
Approaching a victim while he or she is stopped at a red light.
Approaching a victim in a shopping mall, driveway or apartment parking area.
Q. What are some precautions I can take to protect myself from a carjacking?
A. Be suspicious. Trust no one standing in the roadway.
Leave room between you and the car in front of you at red lights so it is possible to drive off if someone attempts a carjacking. Also, stay alert at red lights. Carjackers look for victims who appear not to be paying attention.
Park in well-lit areas and avoid parking near suspicious vehicles with people hanging around them. Keep your keys in hand when approaching or leaving your car. Be wary of someone who seems to be pacing his or her walk to arrive at your car just as your are about to enter or exit your vehicle. If an individual’s behavior is questionable, quickly leave the area. Call the police as soon as possible if you suspect someone is a potential carjacker.
Consider buying a cell phone. It may be your best protection in many situations.
Carjackings are crimes of opportunity. By taking these simple preventative measures, you can greatly reduce your risk of being targeted for this crime. If you do encounter a carjacker and he/she threatens you with a weapon, don’t physically resist or argue with the perpetrator. Give up the car and get away from the area as quickly as possible. Your life is worth more than a car.
Once you are safe, immediately contact the police and tell them where the crime occurred and what the carjacker looked like — sex, race, hair and eye color, height and weight, what he was wearing and if he had any distinguishing features, such as prominent scars or tattoos. |
