How to Protect Yourself from Carjacking

Step 1 Stay alert Stay alert at places carjackers like to strike — red lights, gas stations, ATM machines, parking lots, shopping centers, car washes, convenience stores, hotels, valet parking areas, fast-food drive-throughs, and outside of retail stores.

Step 2 Keep your doors locked Keep your doors locked when you’re driving, and keep your windows up as much as possible — especially when you’re stopped in traffic.

Step 3 Leave space at red light Leave space between your car and the car in front of you at a red light, so you have room to escape if someone tries to carjack you.

Step 4 Use care when parking Park carefully. Choose only well-lit spots and avoid remote areas.

Step 5 Don’t let a stranger in If your car breaks down or is disabled in an accident and a stranger offers to help, do not open your window or door. If you don’t have a cell phone, ask them to call for help.

Step 6 Don’t fall for the “bump and rob” Don’t fall for the intentional fender bender, known as the ‘bump and rob.’ If you suspect that someone has hit you intentionally as a way to get you out of your car, note their license plate number and then drive directly to the nearest police station.

Step 7 Don’t jeopardize your life If you are faced with a carjacker, don’t fight him. Your car, no matter how snazzy, is not worth your life.