Protect Yourself From Carjacking

People tend to feel safe when they are behind the wheel. They believe that once they slide into the driver’s seat, they will get where they are going without incident. Few people, if any, expect to fall victim to a carjacking. Unfortunately, the crime occurs more often than people believe.

Most experts say that the crime is preventable as long as drivers stay alert. One of the worst mistakes that a driver can do is to let their guard down, especially in certain situations. Here are tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of this serious crime.

1. Keep Your Eyes Peeled

When stopped at a traffic light, what do you do? If you are like many people, you quickly check your phone, change the radio station or even give yourself a once-over in the mirror. You are far better to spend that time surveying the scene around you car. Know what is happening in front of, behind and to the sides of your vehicle.

2. Don’t Be Isolated

Avoid the temptation to pull into the closest ATM that you see when you need cash. Isolated areas offer opportunity for would-be criminals. If you need to make a stop, wait until you get into a heavily-populated, well-lit area.

3. Don’t Stop

If you see a stranded motorist or pedestrian, stay in your vehicle and call emergency services. While most people are truly stranded, you never know if you are falling for a ruse.

4. Keep Your Windows Rolled Up & Doors Locked 

If you see someone approaching your vehicle and cannot drive away safely, keep your doors locked and your windows rolled up. If someone asks you for directions, you can easily talk to them through a closed window. Don’t be tempted to roll your window down or open your door for a stranger.

5. Police Impostors

Police in an unmarked car will rarely pull over a motorist. If you find yourself in this situation, advise the person that you are calling 911 to confirm their identity. A real police officer will have no problem with this. Someone pretending to be an officer may attempt to flee the area to avoid arrest.

6. Make a Scene

There may come a time when someone approaches your vehicle and you know that you are in a bad situation. Lay on the horn. Criminals do not want to draw attention to themselves. The best thing that you can do in a situation like this is to make a scene. Yell, honk, flash your lights — do anything you can to draw attention to yourself.

If you are injured in an accident in Charlotte, you may have the legal right to compensation for your injuries. Reach out to our experienced personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation. We will discuss your injuries with you, including how they occurred, and advise you of your legal options. Call today.