Carjackers have been hitting Capitol Hill and other areas hard the past few months. Police say they are trying to fight back. Below are a few tips provided by the Prince George’s County Police Department on how to stay safe from violent attacks while driving. 1) Keep doors and windows locked when driving. 2) When you come to a stop, allow at least one car length between your car and the car in front of you so you have room to maneuver if someone approaches your car. 3) If someone approaches your car in a threatening manner and you can’t drive away, draw attention to the situation by honking the car horn or yelling. Stay in your locked car if possible, but act accordingly if the person is armed. 4) Keep purses, wallets and other valuables out of view while driving. 5) Drive in the center lane or the center of the road to avoid being pushed into a shoulder or to give yourself more space to react to attacking cars or people. 6) Don’t stop at isolated pay phones or cash machines. 7) Keep a close eye on strangers who approach your car. If you’re in the car, drive away as quickly as possible if approached. If you’re not in the car, walk away from the car and get to a safe, public space. 8) If another driver bumps your car, keep the doors locked and your windows up and call the police. While you are waiting for authorities, drive to a well-lit, populated area or the nearest police or fire station before getting out to exchange information with the other driver. 9) Avoid driving in high-risk areas when there’s little traffic (e.g., late at night, early in the morning). 10) Above all, do not resist an armed suspect. Material things — such as your car, purse and jewelry — aren’t worth personal injury or death.
