Hijackers are back in business
Johannesburg – Dialdirect Insurance has warned motorists to be vigilant as the country eases out of lockdown, because according to statistics hijackers are back in business.
Dialdirect spokesperson Bianca De Beer said they have noticed that hijackings are back at the same level they were pre-lockdown; and recommended tips to prevent becoming another hijacking statistic.
“Stay alert, make sure you keep your eyes on the road and notice your surroundings. If possible invest in an electric gate. Many hijackings and home invasions happen just as you enter or leave your home. Having a well-lit driveway and an electric gate that can switch to a battery during power failures can help you get in and out safely. Leave enough room between your car and the one in front to avoid being boxed in. If you think you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station, don’t go home. When driving home alone, always phone ahead to give a relative your time of arrival. Know your neighbours and the cars they drive, this will help identify any uncommon vehicles in your area. Adopt a search pattern radius to scout before approaching your home. Adjust your speed when approaching a traffic light so that you do not have to come to a complete stop,” De Beer said.
There are also rules to follow if you are accosted by a hijacker. “Remain calm; do not argue or make sudden gestures. Avoid eye contact, but try to remember what the carjacker looked like by identifying and remembering special features. Comply with the hijacker’s directions, within reason. Try and get away from the area as quickly as possible. Don’t be a hero; your life is worth more than your car. As we all know, prevention is better than cure, but in order to prevent a hijacking, one needs to be equipped with the correct information. Remember that the greatest weapon in a hijacker’s arsenal is not his gun, but the belief that it won’t happen to us. Hijacking is a reality and you need to be prepared for this horrific eventuality,” De Beer said.
