Carjacking - Armed Theft of Automobiles from Their Drivers

Defined

Imagine sitting at a traffic signal and having someone thrust a gun in your face and taking your car from you. Or having your car stolen from your driveway or while you're getting gas. This is the crime called CARJACKING.

Opportunity and vulnerability of victims are some of the reasons for carjacking. For some, carjacking is a rite of passage, status symbol, or just for the thrill.

Cars are becoming harder to steal. Thieves find it much easier to steal a car with the owner inside and the keys in the ignition than it is to break into a car.

Carjacking can happen anywhere, not just in traditional "high crime" areas. It can happen just as easily during the daytime hours as it is after dark.

Some of the windows of opportunity that carjackers look for:

• Intersections controlled by stop signs or lights.
• Garages and parking lots for mass transit, shipping malls, and grocery stores.
• Self-serve gas stations and car washes.
• Automated teller machines.
• Residential driveways and streets as people get into and out of their vehicles.
• Highway exit ramps, or anyplace that drivers slow down or stop.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Carjacking

There is no guaranteed way of avoiding a carjacking. There are some common sense precautions you can take to put the odds in your favor.

• Before you enter your car, be alert to any activity near your car. Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle.
• If someone is loitering around your unoccupied car as you approach, keep walking. Do not attempt to get in your car until they are gone.
• Keep your windows closed and doors locked while driving.
• When stopped at a traffic signal or sign, stay far enough away from the vehicle in front of you so you can see the rear wheels. This will allow you to have enough room to leave quickly, if needed.
• If your vehicle is bumped from behind, do not get out. Drive to a well-lighted, safe area first, then get out of your vehicle. This a common tactic used by carjackers to steal cars.
• Be suspicious of strangers asking for directions, change or handing out flyers. If you feel uncomfortable, pull out carefully and leave the area, even if it means running a red light or stop sign.
• If you suspect you are being followed, never drive home. Change directions, go to a safe area, and call the police.
• Be alert when using drive-up ATM machines.

If it happens to you...

• Don't argue. Give up your car, especially if you are threatened with a gun or other weapon. Your life is worth far more than the car.
• Get away from the area as quickly as possible.
• Try to get a good description of the carjacker. Note the sex, race, age, weight, height, hair and eye color, distinguishing features, and clothing.
• Report the crime as soon as possible to the police.