South Africa continues to experience persistently high levels of vehicle theft and hijacking. It’s an unfortunate reality that keeping safe also means being aware of your car’s vulnerabilities. This is why short-term insurance is such an important safety net. Here’s how to prevent vehicle theft and what to do if this happens to you.
Vehicle theft and hijacking trends
Crime statistics for July to December 2024 show that hijackings now account for 56% of all vehicle crime, while theft makes up 44% of cases, according to Tracker. However, the risk varies across provinces, and business vehicles are at greater risk than personal vehicles. This is broadly in line with the most recent Santam Insurance Barometer, which found a 128% increase in high-value vehicle theft and hijacking claims in 2022.
The worst hijacking hotspots in South Africa include Orange Farm and Ivory Park in Gauteng, Newlands East and Umlazi in KwaZulu-Natal, and Nyanga and Harare in the Western Cape.
Key things to know:
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Hijackers take advantage of vehicles stopped on the roads or in driveways.
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Personal vehicles are equally likely to be hijacked or stolen.
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Business vehicles - including cargo trucks and courier delivery vehicles - are more likely to be hijacked.
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Most hijackings are reported between 4pm and 8pm on Fridays.
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Vehicle theft is most often reported on Saturdays between 4pm and 8pm.
Vehicles most likely to be stolen
Ever wondered what the most stolen vehicles are in South Africa? According to Cartracker, they include sedans, hatchbacks and coupes, which are also the most common cars on our roads. These make up around 46% of vehicle theft and hijacking. Fidelity ADT has identified Toyota, Volkswagen and Ford as some of the most popular targets, adding that Chinese brands such as Chery and GWM are now also being targeted because there is now a larger market for parts.
Light duty vehicles and vans account for 31% of vehicle crime, making this the second most popular vehicle category for criminals. They’re more expensive than hatchbacks and sedans, and are more sought after for their cargo carrying and off-road ability.
How to prevent vehicle car hijacking attacks
Tracking company Cartrack identified these common tactics for hijacking and vehicle theft:
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Criminals may follow you to your destination and hijack you while you wait for the gate to open.
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They may use flashing blue lights to impersonate police vehicles and ask you to pull over in an isolated area.
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Hijackers may also gently bump your vehicle and take the car when you get out to inspect the damage.
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Criminals use advanced tech such as relay attack devices, signal jamming, lock picking, and cloning of key fobs to gain access to cars even with keyless entry systems.
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Vehicles can be stolen when left unattended at car washes.
By staying alert to your surroundings, checking your car is locked, and only pulling over at a police station or another safe area, you can reduce the likelihood of car hijack attacks.
How to protect your vehicle from theft:
You can reduce your risk and keep your vehicle safe with the following tips:
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Make sure your vehicle is adequately protected. Always lock your car when leaving the vehicle, and check that the car responds when you lock it.
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Consider installing a tracking device, which can potentially reduce your insurance premium.
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Keep your car maintained and serviced to reduce your chances of breaking down.
Road safety tips for drivers:
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Stay alert when driving and practice situational awareness. Evaluate whether your navigation app will take you through an area that may be unsafe. Notice if there are vehicles following you, and drive to a police station if you’re feeling unsafe. Share your location with your family while on the road.
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Put your phone away while you’re in the car so you aren’t distracted.
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Invest in your home security. Ensure your driveway is well lit, consider installing motion detectors and cameras, and join your neighbourhood security group.
What Santam’s comprehensive vehicle insurance covers:
Santam offers comprehensive vehicle insurance with hijack cover. With Santam, you have access to the mobile app and emergency hotline so that you can file a claim and get help wherever you are. We can even give you directions while you’re on the go - so that you get there safely. Call us on 0860 505 911 toll-free, or use the app, for 24/7 assistance.
Depending on your insurance option, you may also be covered for emergency costs and trauma treatment - a vital support when things go wrong.
Find out what your vehicle insurance covers
Check your vehicle insurance and make sure you’re adequately covered should you lose your vehicle to crime. Don’t forget to review your excess and check that it’s still appropriate. While having a large excess payment in the event of a claim can lower your insurance premiums, you should still be able to cover this shortfall comfortably should you have to claim.
If you’re not covered yet, get a quote today.