How to Prevent a Carjacking
During summer months in Florida, many motorists often drive with their windows down to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. This can leave you vulnerable to becoming a victim of a carjacking. This crime has become common across the nation with the Department of Justice reporting nearly 49,000 incidents a year. This crime is categorized as the completed or attempted robbery of a motor vehicle by a stranger to a victim.
If you are the victim of a carjacking, the first thing you should do is dial 911 to report the incident. Once a report has been filed, you should contact your insurance company to inform them of the situation. A carjacker searches for their prey in the same manner as all other criminals; they look for dark areas where there are few people and for someone who appears weaker and will not fight back. The best way to help prevent a carjacking is always being aware of your surroundings. We also encourage you to follow these tips from the Office of Attorney General Pam Bondi:
- Keep doors locked and windows shut.
- Don't stop to assist a disabled motorist. Instead, contact a service station or police.
- When stopped at a light, leave enough room between you and the car in front that you could make an escape.
- Be suspicious of anyone approaching the car with fliers, asking for change or directions. Be ready to leave carefully, even if it means running a red light or stop sign.
- While driving, if struck from behind or in any suspicious way, stay in your vehicle with the doors locked and windows closed until the police arrive. Activate your vehicle's emergency flashers.
- If you're very suspicious, get the other vehicle's license number and drive to the nearest police station or a well-lighted area with lots of people.
- If you think you are being followed, drive immediately to an area with lots of lights and people. If possible, drive to the nearest law enforcement office.
