Full Notification

• What is it: A robbery where the object of the robbery is a car.
• Where is it: Mostly in big cities - less so in the suburbs, small towns, and rural areas.
• When is it: Usually during hours of darkness, but it can happen anytime.
• What suspects look for: Opportunity, ease of attack.
• Chances for victimization: Low probability, but high potential for serious consequences.
• Statistical information:
-One percent of all vehicle thefts is categorized as GTA's.
-Two percent of all robberies involve "carjackings."
-Three percent of all vehicles in Los Angeles City and Los Angeles County involve "carjackings."
• A high percentage of the victims are affluent. Suspects target expensive vehicles.

Vehicle Robbery Prevention - You Can Make The Difference
• Reduce the risk of vehicle robbery and avoid setting yourself up;
• Keep doors locked and windows up;
• When stopped, leave room to maneuver and escape;
• Driving in the center lane makes you a more difficult robbery target;
• Be wary of strangers approaching you. Trust your instincts and drive away when you feel threatened;
• Keep valuables out of sight;
• Park in lots or garages with attendants;
• Park in well-lighted areas;
• Park in the open. Never let a high profile vehicle or truck hide a robber;
• Be aware of your surroundings when walking to and from your vehicle;
• Walk with other people when possible;
• Walk with purpose and stay alert;
• Approach your vehicle with your key in hand;
• Look in and around your car before entering; and
• If the "carjacker" is armed, don't resist, give up your vehicle and get away as soon as possible.
• What if you are followed, or involved in a suspicious accident?
• If you have a cellular phone, call the police and advise them of the situation;
• If you suspect you are being followed, immediately drive to a police, sheriff or fire station or to busy area;
• DO NOT drive home; and
• In both cases, write down the license number and description of the suspects. If you are involved in a suspicious traffic accident, do not inspect the damage in a remote area. Motion for the other driver to follow you to the nearest police station or busy, well-lighted location to exchange information. Use your emergency flashers at the same time.
• If you get robbed, give up your vehicle and leave the scene immediately. Do everything you can to avoid being kidnapped.
• Consider having a vehicle tracking system installed in your vehicle. Your vehicle can be tracked immediately and an arrest or recovery of property is more likely.
• Consider installing an alarm system that will shut down the vehicle engine after a few seconds or minutes. This allows the "carjacker" to drive away until the engine turns off. The suspect will abandon the vehicle when it fails to restart.