Protecting Your Family and Automobiles from Car Jacking

Imagine sitting at a traffic light when someone comes to your car window brandishing a gun. Imagine pulling into your driveway and waiting for the garage door to open when someone forcibly pulls you from your car. These are examples of car jackings. No matter what type of car you drive, no matter where you drive it, car jacking could happen to you.

Facts About Car Jacking
Car jacking occurs when a car thief, through force or fear, removes a driver from his or her car in order to steal it. Because car alarm systems, kill switches and other high-tech deterrents have become more common in recent years, many car thieves have decided it is easier to steal a car when the driver and the keys are in it. In addition, many drivers don't consider car jacking to be a likely threat, thereby making a car jacker's job all that much easier.

Car jacking can take place any time, any place and to anyone. However, the majority of these crimes occur at night at intersections and parking lots in high-crime areas. Luxury cars and SUVs are the preferred choice of a car jacker. This is due to the value of these cars and the fact that many "jacked" cars are stolen and sold or chopped for parts. However, often times, cars are jacked simply because the criminal wants to go on a joyride. Even if you don't drive an expensive car, you could become a target if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time, and unprepared.

How to help prevent a car jacking
Careful planning and remaining alert while driving is key to protecting yourself from a car jacking. Here are several steps you can take to help protect yourself from this type of crime.

Before you get in the car…

• Plan your route and make sure you know two well-traveled streets that can take you to your destination. Knowing an alternative route can help you avoid high crime areas in case there is road construction or other detours.
• Make sure your car is in good running condition. Having car trouble could make you an easy target.
• When approaching your car, pay attention to activity nearby. If someone suspicious is near your car, do not attempt to get in. Keep walking and call 911 if you feel threatened.
• Have your key in hand when approaching your car. Before getting in, check the handles, locks and back seat to make sure no one has entered your car.
• Separate your car keys from your house keys. Remove any documents in your car that identify your address or other personal information. If a car jacker takes your car, you don't want the criminal to be able to learn where you live.
• Purchase a cell phone and keep it with you when you drive in case you need to call 911.

When you get out of your car…

• Always park in an area that is well lighted. If it is daytime and you will be leaving after sundown, consider the change in lighting. When possible, avoid parking near dumpsters, large vans or trucks, wooded areas or anything else that limits visibility.
• If you are uncomfortable with where you've parked, locate a security guard who can walk you to your car.
• Keep valuables out of plain view even if the car is locked. If noticed, a valuable item in your car could make you a target.

When you're driving your car…

• Closely monitor fuel levels to prevent your vehicle from running out of gas.
• Travel with another passenger. Having to remove more than one person from a car may be a deterrent.
• If someone flags you down from the side of the road, appearing to need assistance, do not stop and get out of your car. Go somewhere safe and call for assistance.
• Always keep your car doors locked and do not lower your windows enough for a car jacker to get his arm in the window.
• Be aware of activity near your car. Car jackers single out people who do not appear to be alert.
• Avoid getting boxed in when stopping in traffic. If you can see the rear wheels of the car in front of you, you should be able to pull away.
• Avoid high crime areas, especially after dark.
• Be suspicious of people approaching your car, even if they are just asking for directions or handing out flyers. If a suspicious person approaches your car, drive away carefully.
• If someone bumps your car, do not get out. Keep your doors locked and windows up. Minor accidents are sometimes simulated by car jackers to get you to stop and exit your car. Instead, drive to the nearest police or fire station, or a well lighted, populated area.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially when you must slow down or stop. Car jackings occur most often at garages, parking lots, intersections, gas stations, car washes, highway entry and exit ramps, or at drive-up ATMs.

If it happens to you
If a car jacker threatens you or attempts to forcibly remove you from your car, remember, no matter what the value of your car is, it is nothing compared to the value of your life.

• Don't resist, especially if the car jacker possesses a weapon. Give up your vehicle and contact the police as soon as possible.
• Don't attempt to grab your belongings when confronted. Leave everything behind if forced from the car.
• Put as much distance between yourself and the car jacker when you give up your vehicle in case the thief attempts to pursue you.