As with most things, it is always important to remain alert and aware when driving to and from your residence.
You can make a massive and positive difference to your safety by being aware of what is happening around your vehicle.
“As a responsible driver you must remove all distractions to keep 100% of your attention on the road, other road users, and the safe operation of the vehicle you are driving,” says Charnel Hattingh, group head of communications and marketing at Fidelity Services Group.
Research published by MiWay recently stated the most common area where hijackings took place was at home, in the driveway. This lined up with information Crime SA developed that pointed to an estimated 71% of car hijackings occurring in driveways.
“Basic personal safety habits can prevent a hijacking from happening in your driveway. We hope these tips can help you and your family be safe,” says Hattingh.
• Who is following you? Keep checking the rear-view mirror for vehicles that might be following you. If you see a suspicious vehicle behind you, drive past your gate and circle the block. If they are still behind you, drive to the nearest police station.
• Check the street before opening the gate. Do not open your garage door or sliding gate until you check that there are no suspicious vehicles in your street.
• Break your routine. Criminals often rely on predictable behaviour and patterns. If you vary your routines to and from work or the road you take to the shops, you make it more difficult for them to plan a hijacking.
• Confirm your arrival time. Let your family members at home know when you are due to arrive home so that they can raise an alarm in case your arrival is delayed for whatever reason.
“When you do become a victim of a hijacking, it is critical to remain calm and to comply with instructions. Try to notice as much information as you can about the hijackers and the backup car they might be using,” says Hattingh.
“Speak to your insurance provider about the vehicle tracking device they recommend. This could help you in the safe and quick recovery of your vehicle.”
