CARJACKING |
Beware of Dangerous Situations!! |
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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. 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: |
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Intersections controlled by stoplights or signs
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Garages and commuter parking areas, shopping malls and grocery stores
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Self-service gas stations and car washes
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Drive-thru banks
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Residential driveways and streets where people are often get into and out of cars
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Freeway exits and entry ramps
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The key to avoiding this crime is prevention. It is a good idea to think about what to do if you became a carjacking victim. 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
- Do not pull over if a suspicious driver motions you to do so
- If you feel you are being followed by another vehicle, do not drive home
- 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
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| For more information:
The National Safety Council http://www.nsc.org/resources/factsheets/road/car_jacking.aspx
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