If you’re like most drivers, you’ve probably had the unfortunate experience of being carjacked at least once in your life. Carjackings are a serious crime and can result in serious injury or death for the victim. Here’s everything you need to know about carjackings so that you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
What are the costs of carjackings?
The costs of carjackings vary widely, but can often be quite expensive for the individuals involved. In some cases, carjackers may demand money or important items from the victim, and in other cases they may attempt to physically harm the victim. The costs of carjackings can also vary depending on the location where the crime occurs, as well as the type of vehicle that is targeted.
How common are carjackings?
According to the FBI, carjackings are “relatively rare crimes.” They occur about once a week in the U.S., but that number may be inflated because it does not include cases where a car is stolen and then used in a robbery.
Thefts from cars are more common, with about 1.5 million reported incidents each year. However, carjackings account for only about 20% of those thefts.
Thefts from cars often involve criminals using weapons such as knives or guns, which makes them more dangerous and risky for victims.
How to avoid becoming a victim of a carjacking
If you’re like most people, you probably think carjackings are rare. But they’re not. In fact, according to the FBI, carjackings are on the rise: there were 1,575 reported in 2013, up from 1,461 in 2012.
Here’s how to avoid becoming a victim of a carjacking:
1. Don’t leave your car unsecured. Make sure all the windows and doors are locked and that your vehicle is parked in a well-lit area.
2. Avoid travelling alone at night. Carjackers know that lone drivers are more likely to be unarmed and vulnerable.
3. If you do get caught in a carjacking, remain calm and don’t resist. The best thing to do is cooperate with the thief until police arrive.
What to do if you are a victim of a carjacking
If you are a victim of a carjacking, the best thing to do is to try and stay calm. Remember that you are not alone and there are people who are available to help you. If you are able, document the event as much as possible. This will help law enforcement identify the perpetrator and hopefully put him behind bars.
Conclusion
While car jackings may seem like an easy way to make some quick cash, the reality is that this type of crime is risky. Not only are you highly likely to get caught, but you’re also putting yourself and others at risk by using your car as a tool for robbery. If you find yourself in a situation where you or someone else needs to use your car as a means of escape, make sure to leave everything inside the vehicle — don’t take any chances with your safety.