The GTA has recently seen a number of carjacking crime incidents. Not only do these incidents contribute to the vehicle theft pandemic that parts of Ontario are currently experiencing, but these incidents are extremely dangerous. Carjackers can attack out of nowhere, leaving the victim stunned and in possible danger.
Tips to protect yourself from becoming a victim of carjacking:
With carjacking crime rates on the rise, it's crucial to be vigilant about watching for carjackers and protecting your car from theft. Here are some steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of carjacking:
- Always be aware of your surroundings – we have seen a trend of carjacking incidents in parking lots, particularly in fast food restaurant parking lots. These carjacking incidents appear to occur at all hours of the day, including in the daytime.
- If you have a garage at your home, park the vehicle in the garage and immediately close and lock the door.
- Separate car keys from any additional keys (i.e. house keys). In the event of a carjacking, home keys attached to your car keys can make your home a target in the future.
- If you see people approaching you, hit the “lock” button on your key fob. The noise may deter someone from coming closer.
- If you are faced with a carjacking situation, give up the vehicle to the attacker. Vehicles can be replaced, your life cannot.
Safety tips when selling a vehicle
Carjackings have also been reported when attempting to sell vehicles. Below are some tips to keep safe and prevent motor vehicle theft when selling a vehicle:
- When you are contacted by a potential buyer, prior to meeting in person, request that they send you a copy of their driver’s license.
- Meet potential buyers in a public, high traffic area, during daylight hours. Police parking lots are an ideal place to meet someone, as help is nearby if needed and the area will also have surveillance cameras.
- Always be suspicious of any potential buyer willing to buy a vehicle “sight unseen.”