’Tis the Season of Carjacking in D.C.
The D.C. police department is advising drivers to beware.
“Here are carjacking prevention tips as attacks more than double in DC,” reported Taylor Edwards for NBC Washington on Monday. “As city officials and community members work to prevent carjackings, here are tips on how to protect yourself, including driving in the center lane and avoiding driving alone.”
“In 2023 thus far, 906 carjackings have occurred, compared to 439 last year, Metropolitan Police Department statistics show,” began Edwards. “Many of the victims have been held at gunpoint, with guns involved in over three-quarters of the crimes.”
“Avoiding Becoming a Victim of Carjacking,” is the name of a pamphlet currently being distributed by the D.C. police department, advising citizens on how to protect themselves and their vehicles “from Loss or Personal Injury in a Carjacking.”
“When you are on the road,” DCPD advises drivers to:
Drive in the center lane to make it harder for potential carjackers to approach the car.
AVOID driving alone.
Travel with someone whenever possible, especially at night.
When you are coming to a stop, leave enough room to maneuver around other cars, especially if you sense trouble and need to get away.