Avoiding the Hijack

From these examples, you can also see that there is some room for avoiding the most common hijack scenarios, providing the basic rule of maintaining space is adhered to. This is no more than the spatial awareness that we discussed previously in terms of reducing accident risks, but exaggerated to allow you to leave the scene if you choose to do so. Here are some useful methods to  employ:

Open Junction

A normal Give Way junction in an urban or rural area which has little or no obstructions on either side and so affords a good view for emerging vehicles.

  • Don't stop is the first solution to the vast majority of incidents. This is quite achievable in most cases, providing your planning is up to scratch. Consider the way in which a round­ about is supposed to be used, to ease and maintain the traffic flow. Each vehicle is sup­ posed to approach cautiously and be prepared to give way, but ideally slide into a planned gap in the traffic. The same applies to "open" junctions where "Give Way" lines are em­ ployed - as opposed to "Stop" lines which are quite rare. The critical factor is the speed at which you approach the hazard - as you are dragged along by the invisible elastic that joins all  urban  traffic together. Snap the elastic, think  for yourself  and arrive at the  queue as it begins to move.
  • Think before you start - or stop - about where the risks are in terms of who is around your vehicle:- Who is lurking between vehicles? Where is the best space to stop and be seen? How can I attract attention as I stop? Is there anyone in the car, especially on the floor in the back, before I get in? Many of the static hi-jacks are successful simply because we do not think of these areas. We are not programmed to be that suspicious, which is why women (and men) are so vulnerable in car parks and dark side streets. Raise attention before you leave or enter your vehicle by loud noise or use the  horn.
  • Don't get directly involved - in a situation which appears either unlikely or unusual. Rather than leaping from your car to help at an accident scene, check the scene carefully  while telephoning the police. Give details of location, vehicles, registrations if visible and descrip­tions of the people at the scene. Use of the phone will often make the hijackers scatter if  they fear they have been rumbled. Then from a cracked window, ask what the injuries are and advise that the police are coming. While talking, leave the vehicle in gear, handbrake off, and wheels pointing at an escape route. At the first hint of danger, leave the scene and advise the Police.
  • Travel on well used roads - as opposed to country lanes or other "short-cuts". These are perfect for ambush and can be taken over by the judicious use of diversion signs and plastic cones without raising any suspicions. The presence of other people may well just save your life, but you will still have to make them realise what is happening.