Carjacking

Carjacking is when someone steals your car by force. It's been in the news a lot lately. Your chance of this happening is very small. But there are things you can do to lower your risk even more.

Why is Carjacking a Problem?

No one knows for sure. But here are some possible reasons:

• It's a crime of opportunity - a thief looks for the easiest target. Sometimes it's the first step in another crime.
• For some young people, carjacking is exciting or a way to show off.
• Cars, especially expensive ones, can be sold quickly for cash. Criminals use this money for drugs or other illegal things.
• New security systems make it harder to steal empty cars.
• Guns are easy to get in this country. A gun is a powerful threat.
• More young people commit violent crimes than in the past.
• Media coverage may have led to copycats.

It Can Happen Anywhere, to Anyone

• Most laws don't have a specific "carjacking" crime. It's reported as auto theft or armed robbery. So there are no solid statistics on when, where, and who is targeted.
• Many happen late at night. But carjackings can occur any time.
• It's not just a big city problem - it happens in suburbs, small towns, and rural areas too.
• Carjackers look for easy targets. They don't pick victims based on sex, race, or age.

When are you most at risk?

Golden opportunities for carjackers:

• Stoplights and stop signs.
• Parking lots at malls, stores, transit stations.
• Gas stations and car washes.
• ATMs.
• Driveways and streets when getting in or out of your car.
• Highway on-ramps and off-ramps. Anywhere cars must slow down or stop.

The "Bump and Rob"

Here's how this scam works:

A car rear-ends you in traffic. You get out quickly to check the damage and swap information. The driver or passenger jumps into your car and drives off.

• If you're bumped, look around before getting out. Make sure other cars are around. Check out the car and people inside. If you feel nervous, write down the license plate and description. Signal the other driver to follow you to a police station or busy area.
• If you do get out, take your keys and wallet with you. Stay alert.

Reduce Your Risk

Getting In

• Walk with purpose and stay alert.
• Have your key ready. Look around inside the car before getting in.
• Be wary of people asking for directions or handing out papers.
• Trust your instincts. If something seems wrong, get in quickly, lock the doors, and drive away.

On the Road

• Keep doors locked and windows partly rolled up at all times. Even on short trips or in safe areas.
• Leave room to maneuver around other cars. This allows you to get away if needed.
• Drive in the middle lane. This makes it harder for carjackers to approach.
• Avoid driving alone, especially at night.
• Don't stop for strangers with car trouble. Call police instead.

Getting Out

• Park in well-lit areas near sidewalks. Avoid spots near dumpsters, woods, large vehicles, or anything limiting visibility.
• Don't leave valuables in plain view, even if locked. Put them in the trunk.
• Try to park in a garage with an attendant. Leave only the ignition key, no ID.
• Check surroundings before exiting, even if rushed. Stay alert.

If It Happens to You...

• Give up your car if threatened with a weapon. Your life is more valuable than the car.
• Get away quickly and remember what the carjacker looked like.
• Report it to police immediately.

Take Action

• Work with community groups to spread awareness. Use fliers, meetings, posters, etc.
• Make sure driver's ed talks about prevention.
• Ask radio stations to share tips during drive times.
• Encourage insurance companies to include prevention info in mailings.
• Distribute materials at parking lots, malls, transit stations, etc.
• Put fliers in car repair shop waiting rooms.
• Ask the DMV to display posters and share tips.