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Don’t be a statistic: 4 tips to avoid motorcycle hijacking

 

It seems as though motorcyclists are being targeted by hijackers now. Make sure you are prepared.

By: Nthabiseng Moloi, MiWay Head of Marketing & Brand

We all know that car hijacking continues to be a common crime in our society. However, as motorists have become more vigilant and law enforcement more effective, criminals have widened their focus.

There’s now evidence that criminals are turning their eyes towards motorcycles as well. Several hijackings of motorcycles on the East Rand could herald a new criminal growth industry especially as motorcycles are costly pieces of equipment – and are ideal getaway vehicles as well.

Motorbikes are also arguably more vulnerable than cars when they are driving slowly or at a standstill.

Perhaps most important of all, motorcyclists typically are unaware of this potential threat and so are likely to be less vigilant than other road-users. Hijackings happen very fast, constant vigilance is very important as a survival tactic. In addition, because hijackers will usually force their victim to remove his or her helmet for better communication, the biker immediately forfeits a valuable safeguard against injury.

To avoid falling prey to hijackers, motorcyclists should take heed of the following tips:

1. Just because someone is on a bike, don’t assume that they are friendly – and be particularly careful of motorcyclists with a pillion rider. The pillion rider is often the active partner in the hijacking; if he starts to dismount and there is an opportunity to safely pull off, do so immediately.
2. If you suspect someone is following you, drive to the nearest well-lit public space, like a garage, or the nearest police station and ensure you have an escape route every time you need to stop.
3. Be cautious of people loitering around intersections. If you can, slow down to avoid coming to a complete stop.
4. Know when you’re at risk: Founder of the National Hijack Prevention Academy, Richard Brussow, said: "Hijackings usually take place in areas with easy escape routes. These include driveways, intersections and traffic signs where vehicles are forced to stop. Places where drivers might pull over to use a cellphone or drop off/pick up children from school are also high-risk areas.”

These tips can help motorcyclists avoid becoming hijack victims but, unfortunately, crime is a reality - street smarts and vigilance must be complemented by proper motorcycle insurance as well. If you are confronted by a hijacker, do exactly as you are told, do not resist – especially if the hijacker has a weapon. Your life is worth more than your vehicle.

MiWay is an Authorised Financial Services Provider (Licence no: 33970)


Date Posted: 2017-09-29
Posted By: MiWay Insurance Limited
Listed under these Business Listing Categories: Financial services,

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