Carjackers threaten armed violence. Or worse. But you can help protect yourself and your car by taking some simple precautions.

• before getting into your car, pay attention to your surroundings and be alert to nearby activity
• always approach your car with your keys in hand
• always check the back seat before opening your car
• make sure doors you left locked are still locked when you return
• if someone is loitering near your car, don't approach it
• once you're in your car, keep your doors and windows locked
• carry a cellular phone and know your emergency numbers: #77 for Virginia State Police and 911 for local police
• avoid high-crime areas, especially after dark
• be wary of people who approach your vehicle to ask for directions or change, or to hand out flyers
• when stopped in traffic, leave enough distance from the car in front of you to pull away quickly if necessary; if another car bumps you, or if a tire goes flat, keep your doors and windows closed and locked, wait for the police to arrive, or drive to the nearest police station, service station or convenience store
• stop only at ATMs that are well-lighted and visible from the street; pull as close as possible, then check your mirrors and look outside before opening your window
• if an armed carjacker confronts you, don't resist; get out of the car quickly; it's better to lose your car than your life.