How to Avoid Being the Victim of a Car Jacking

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Do you spend so much time in your car that it’s almost like a second home to you? If so it’s important to make the time spent in the car as safe as possible. Unfortunately, the world can be a dangerous place. Crimes such as car jacking are frequently not random. Many car jacking victims were targeted by criminals looking for easy targets. Don’t let yourself be that target. By practicing simple safety tips in and around your car, you can reduce the risk of being car jacked. Here are some simple steps you can take to avoid being the victim of a car jacking.

Lock your vehicle no matter how long you think your errand will take. Resist the temptation to leave your car running while locking the doors with your keyless remote. Car theft occurs daily. Don’t make it any easier for the thieves. When you’re in your car always leave your doors locked. Having your car stolen is expensive and inconvenient; however, being car jacked is utterly terrifying and could be fatal. If a criminal has difficulty gaining access to your vehicle they will likely move on to an easier target and you’ll avoid being car jacked. Many cars allow you to program your doors to lock automatically after you enter.

Don’t allow yourself to be distracted in your car. Pay particular attention to your environment when you’re stopped at a traffic light or stop sign. Car jackings occur when vehicles are motionless. Criminals will target individuals oblivious to them and to their surroundings. Be aware of what’s going on around you to avoid being car jacked.

Avoid making cell phone calls or sending text messages when you’re at a stop light.

Believe it or not, criminals may be watching you to determine whether you’re an easy target. Routine cell phone use in the car suggests that you are probably careless and unaware.

Avoid having identification on your key ring. Sure, it may help a good Samaritan return your lost keys to you. Unfortunately, it could also help a criminal locate and steal your car. They could also potentially burglarize your home.

Avoid hitchhikers! You’ve seen the teen-slasher horror flicks haven’t you? Let them keep walking and you may avert a potential car jacking. Picking up hitchhikers isn’t worth the risk no matter how forlorn they appear.

Keep all packages and valuables in the trunk. Thieves can’t steal what they don’t see. If a parking attendant parks your car leave only the valet key so no one can access your trunk. Absolutely do not leave your entire key ring. Criminals want to maximize their time. Stealing a car containing bags of merchandise is a jack pot. By reducing your risk for car theft you also help avoid being car jacked.

Be organized with your auto information. Keep your Vehicle Identification Number in a secure location with other relevant information about your vehicle including model, make, year, and color. Lastly include your auto insurance policy number and contact phone numbers.

Car jackings are dangerous, but, fortunately very avoidable. These common sense steps will help you avoid getting car jacked and keep you safer in and around your car. Being busy is no excuse for not being prepared. Stay safe, and don’t be a statistic.