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.
Vehicle theft and hijacking trends
- Hijackers often target vehicles that are stopped on the road or in driveways.
- Both personal and business vehicles are at risk of hijacking or theft.
- Business vehicles — such as cargo trucks and courier delivery vehicles — remain high-value targets.
- Most hijackings are reported on Fridays between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
- Vehicle theft is most frequently reported on Saturdays during the same time frame (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.).
How to protect your vehicle against theft or hijacking attacks
A Faraday pouch is an inexpensive device that blocks unwanted signals and interference, shielding your car keys from theft and your bank cards from fraud.
South Africa is in the process of phasing out outdated networks such as 2G & 3G and replacing them with more advanced technology such as 4G &5G networks. If you have an existing tracking device installed in your vehicle, verify if the device relies solely on 2G or 3G networks with your service provider and consider the necessary upgrade offerings available.
Radio Frequency (RF) tracking devices are reliable alternatives to devices that rely on cellular networks and offer significantly higher vehicle recovery rates as compared to GSM based systems.
Installing a tracking device in your vehicle can help reduce your monthly insurance premium and may even waive the excess in the event of theft or hijacking.
If your vehicle does not already have a tracking device, consider installing one as an additional precaution.
What to do if this happens to you:
- Stay calm and comply with the hijacker’s request. Do not argue, resist or make sudden movements. Your safety is most important than the vehicle.
- Contact your tracking company as soon as possible – keep their emergency numbers saved and easily accessible. If you have more than on tracking device with different companies, notify both companies of the incident as soon as possible.
- Report the incident to your nearest police station and obtain a case number.
- Once you have the police case number, inform your insurer and provide all the necessary details.
What Santam’s comprehensive vehicle insurance covers:
Theft and hijacking cover are included in Santam’s comprehensive vehicle insurance cover. With Santam, you have access to a 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 to your destination safely. Call us on 0860 505 911 toll-free, or use the app, for 24/7 assistance.
If you’re not covered yet, get a quote today.