CarjackingPerhaps the most common method of carjacking is the "bump and rob," wherein you are hit by a driver from behind, you get out of your car to see the damage, etc., and another party comes up and takes your car-often at gunpoint. They also can take your wallet or purse, with money, ID and credit cards in it, and since most people have their house keys on their same key ring, if you aren't close to home, they can go to your home and take everything they can-in your car-before you can get there. People who try to resist have been shot and seriously injured or killed. So the first warning is: If hit from behind, do NOT get out of the car. Call the police if you have a cell phone (a very good idea if you drive alone frequently). Another very common method is someone impersonating a police officer. If you have ANY doubt about that person being a legitimate police officer, drive immediately to the nearest police station!
The most common circumstances for carjacking include when stopped in traffic, especially red lights and stop signs; in parking lots and garages; when getting on or off a highway; at a self-service or late-night gas station carwash or convenience store; at an ATM; when getting into or out of your car. When you get into your car, lock it immediately and always keep your windows rolled up enough so that air can get in but no one can stick their hand in there.
If you see someone in a remote area who appears to need assistance, stop, roll the window down a little bit and ask if you can get them help. Do not get out of the car, do not roll the window down completely. Get help for them; never attempt to help them yourself. If someone tries to force you off the road, try to get away, even if it means a collision. Sound the horn, drive to a service station, lighted house or anywhere you might be able to get immediate help. If someone attempts to enter your car at a stoplight or stop sign, drive away. If you turn to the right, you may avoid any accident when getting away. Attract all the attention you can.
As much as possible, avoid traveling alone. You always can do what Blackdog does-take your black dog with you. Dogs love to ride in cars, though you should never let them be able to stick their head out the window! No matter how big or small the dog is, it's protective and will scare away most potential attackers. Blackdog's dog will eat most potential attackers-not a pretty sight.
If you do have to travel alone a lot, be sure you know where all the "open" places are, such as restaurants, police stations, etc. When stopped in traffic, leave enough room in front of you so that you can pull out and get away if need be. When you park in an attended lot or garage, leave them only the car key. Some attendants have been known to simply locate your ID information in your car (such as the registration that should never be left IN the vehicle) and have an accomplice take your house keys and rip you off while you're in the garage. They also can simply have someone make a copy of the key and then scope out your house at a later time for the opportunity to rip it off when you aren't home.
Be careful out there!
