Referred to by law enforcement as vehicular hijacking, the crime of carjacking is on the rise in many urban areas. Chicago in particular saw approximately 700 cases in 2019, 1400 cases in 2020, and 150 cases in January of 2021. Here are safety tips to help keep you and your vehicle safe, as well as what to do if you are unfortunately the victim of a carjacking. Drivers should always maintain situational awareness and pay special attention to any suspicious persons loitering in the area.
Tips to Prevent Carjacking
- Do not leave your vehicle running while unattended
- Do not leave your vehicle keys or fob in the vehicle
- Drivers should keep doors and windows locked when in the vehicle
- Keep any bags or valuables out of view
- Never leaving any children or pets unattended in a vehicle for any period of time
- Drive away from any potentially threatening situation
- Offenders tend to be males in groups of 2-4, often in their teens
- Often victims are parked and sitting in the car
- Keep adequate distance from the car in front of you to not get blocked in
What Carjackers Are Looking For
- Gas stations
- Curbside pickup locations
- Desolate intersections with stop lights
- Parking garages
- Residential driveways
- Highway exit ramps
What To Do if It Happens
- Know your license plate and VIN number
- If the victim of an attempted carjacking, get kids or pets out first, relinquish the car
- Do not argue and move away from the vehicle
- Note getaway car and direction of flight to share with 911
- Provide a detailed description of the offender(s), including any vehicle description and license plate information
As always, if you “See Something, Say Something.” For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).