A motorist stops at a traffic light. Suddenly out of nowhere, the driver hears a bang as the side window shatters, showering him with flying glass. Before he can gather his wits, a briefcase lying on the front passenger seat is taken. Sadly, this scene happens only too often, but we can take precautions to mitigate the risk of a smash-and-grab.1
- Close any entry point to your car1,2
It may seem obvious, but drivers tend to forget to check whether their doors are locked or not. Most cars today lock doors automatically when driving off, but you need to check if all windows are closed, especially when approaching an intersection or traffic light. You can leave a small gap, as it may be challenging on a hot day when you don’t have air conditioning.
- Don’t open any door or window while stationary in your car1,2
It is sad to see so many people begging for food or money at traffic lights. Your human instinct tells you to help, but unfortunately this may involve a safety risk. You will have no idea if this is a genuine person in dire straits or a criminal trickster. Be wary if you decide to speak to this person especially through an open window. This could be used as a distraction to allow another person to smash a window behind you. Opening a door is even more severe as the would-be criminal can now have full access to your car.
- Always be on the alert while driving1,2
You are at your most significant exposure to any danger when your car has stopped, such as at a stop sign or red traffic light. It is best to approach a red traffic light at night by travelling as slowly as possible until the light changes to green. Be alert to any strange individuals nearby who may suddenly make a move.
- What if rocks or other obstacles are lying in the road? 1,2
The split second you see tyres or rocks lying in the road, stop immediately and reverse as fast as you can, depending on how much traffic is behind you. Avoid navigating around any obstacles as you may seriously damage your car in the process. Worst of all, you may get stuck.
- Leave a gap1,2
Remember to leave a car’s length between your vehicle and the car in front when stopping at a traffic light, which may provide you with enough space to manoeuvre your car out of trouble.
- Remove any temptation from the car1,2
Anything you leave on a passenger seat is begging any would-be criminal to take it. Make it a habit to lock away your handbag, briefcase, or any valuables safely in the boot.
Enquire with your car insurance company what cover you have regarding smash-and-grabs. Are you looking for affordable car insurance? Get affordable car insurance with premiums that never increase* and a reduce to zero excess*? T’s and C’s apply.
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
Also view:
Safety from and Prevention of Smash-And-Grab
Source:
1https://www.nelsonmandelabay.gov.za/DataRepository/Documents/safety-tips-smash-grab.pdf
