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How to reduce your hijacking risk

Tuesday, 07 September 2010 12:24

Given that advanced driving courses lower your risk of accident and in turn prevent unnecessary increases in insurance premiums, anti-hijacking tips can also lower your risk of theft and carjacking. The National Hijack Prevention Academy (NHPA) was established as a result of an increase in crime and assists with hijack prevention and awareness training as well as defensive driving courses.

Between 2008 and 2009, 14 915 vehicles were hijacked in South Africa. Of this 65 percent were not insured, leaving the owner with a severe financial burden. While having theft and hijacking insurance can be cheaper (monthly) than not having it, it’s not recommended.

Here are NHPA’s anti-hijacking tips:

When approaching your vehicle, have your keys ready. Then inspect the outside and inside of the vehicle before you unlock it. This means checking underneath the vehicle as well and for any foreign objects around the wheel that will make you get out of the car after you try to pull off. Check your passenger-door side of the car as well.

While most people avoid getting lost, be extra careful not to wander into an area that you are not familiar with. This means knowing where you’re going and how to get there before you get in the car. Also avoid driving late at night.

When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front of you in case you need to escape quickly. Also leave your windows closed and doors locked while driving and drive in the middle lane so as to avoid pedestrians and try to change your route regularly so as not to become predictable.

*According to the South African Police Service “Crime Situation in South Africa” annual report

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How to reduce your hijacking risk

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