Security and Safety Tips

Carjacking Prevention Tips

Location, Location, Location: Don’t Be Surprised

Certain areas make it easier for carjackers to engage with you. Drivers should be aware of the following frequent carjacking locations:

  • Anywhere a driver slows down or stops
  • Residential driveways (getting in and out of the vehicle)
  • Parking lots and garages
  • Gas stations
  • ATMs
  • Intersections with stop lights

Scenarios: Be Aware

Bump and Run

  • You are rear ended. A passenger from the vehicle that bumps you jumps into your driver seat when you assess the damage and exchange driver information. Note their description and call 911.

Stranded Motorist

  • Do Not Stop for apparently stranded strangers along the road. Note their location and call 911.

Safety Tips: Think Ahead

Always be aware of your surroundings. Make it a habit to enter your car, lock your doors immediately and drive away. Look around for suspicious persons sitting in vehicles or loitering in the area before entering your vehicle.

  • Park in well-lit, visible areas
  • Keep your windows up and doors locked
  • Equip your vehicle with anti-theft/GPS
  • Give yourself room to maneuver around stopped traffic. Don’t get ‘boxed’ in.
  • Keep your cell phone in your pocket
  • Trust your instincts

Create a Smart 911 profile and include your vehicle information.

If You Are The Victim Of A Carjacking

  • Give up your car and leave the scene
  • Remember the suspect(s)’ description and their vehicle’s description (if they have one)
  • The vehicle can be replaced. You are irreplaceable
  • Avoid verbal/physical confrontations
  • If there is a child in the vehicle, let the carjacker know “my child is in the car”
  • Call 911 immediately to report the crime

Download Carjacking Prevention Tips Flyer

Chicago Police Vehicular Hijacking Task Force

Expanded in 2021, the Vehicular Hijacking Task Force consists of Chicago Police, Cook County Sheriffs, Illinois State Police, and federal law enforcement professionals who specialize in the investigation of robbery and violent crime cases, dedicated to the vehicle hijacking incidents in Chicago.

You can contact the Vehicle Hijacking Task Force by email at [email protected] – or – you can submit videos, photos and detailed descriptions of the events, people involved and other information relevant to investigations at CPDtip.com.

You can choose to remain anonymous or to provide your contact information for future contact if needed. Click here to get started.

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).

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