By: Natasha Archary
MasterDrive has brought a new hijacking modus operandi to our attention after a social media video went viral of a female driver becoming the latest victim of the trend.
Managing Director of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert said although the driver was caught off-guard, there are still some basic techniques to help detect a potentially dangerous situation immediately and give you the chance and space to escape that situation.
“The driver was blocked in by the hijacker’s car in front of her and soon by traffic behind her. A key way to prevent yourself from being in this position is to ensure that you keep at least three metres between yourself and the car in front of you when stationary. Admittedly, it would have been difficult to move around the hijackers in this video as their position appears to be carefully chosen but, in many instances, it could give you the space to move around quickly and safely.”
3 ways to stay alert on the roads
1. Being aware of potentially dangerous situations is important to give yourself the best chance.
Quickly moving around a car that suddenly and unexpectedly stops, can make all the difference. Reacting this way, however, is something you need to train yourself to do. When driving, accept that someone stopping suddenly in this manner may be a threat and that your best response is to immediately move around the obstacle.
2. It’s advisable to take an advanced driving course which could better prepare drivers in such situations.
The harsh reality is that this could happen to any motorist at any time.
If you notice a driver slowing down either behind or in front of you, you will be able to analyze the best way out of the situation, even if it means damaging your car in the process. The key is to get yourself out.
3. Always keep a distance between the car in front of you so you can quickly steer out of a potential hijacking attempt.
Most drivers tend to surrender their vehicles without a fight because it is more likely the hijackers will not hurt them. However, this leaves the hijacker with the upper hand in that they can drive away with children in the vehicle, which has happened before.
The important takeaway from this video is that motorists should remain alert at all times whilst on the roads. Stop to assist if you notice a motorist is stranded or to assist as a witness but it’s best to not play hero and try to take down the hijacker.
Stay safe.
