Truck stops, rest areas, and parking lots are used by criminals to prey upon unsuspecting drivers. Protecting yourself from physical harm is your primary concern, of higher priority than the security of your vehicle and cargo. The key to your safety is to be able to recognize the hazards that can put you in harm’s way and know how to defend against these dangers.
Parking or walking in low-lit, isolated areas makes it easy for predators to conceal their presence and catch you off guard. Likewise, high-risk areas put you at an increased danger of being targeted by criminals.
Leaving the windows rolled down and vehicle unlocked invites criminals to break into the truck. Likewise, leaving keys in the ignition and valuables out in the open are tempting targets.
A lack of situational awareness puts you at risk. Talking or texting on the phone while walking distracts you from hidden dangers. Likewise, walking alone to your vehicle or discussing your cargo with strangers or openly in public makes you a target. Engaging in unlawful activities (i.e., drugs, prostitution, etc.) puts your life at risk.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid high-risk areas.
Always lock your vehicle and roll up windows when away.
Keep valuables out of sight of curious passersby.
Stay in well-populated areas.
Listen to your inner voice and call for help if you feel you are in danger.
Ask for an escort if you feel it is unsafe to walk to your vehicle.
Avoid texting and talking on the phone when walking to your vehicle.
Remove headphones when outside the truck so you can hear movement around you.
Carry your keys in your hand, ready to open the door when returning to your truck.
Check under your vehicle’s driver-side door for attackers hiding underneath, waiting to strike.
After entering your vehicle, lock the doors immediately and start the engine.
Keep the doors locked and windows up if someone approaches your vehicle.
If confronted by an armed assailant, the best thing to do is try to run to safety and call for help. Never give chase if the assailant flees; leave the pursuit to the police. If the assailant wants only your wallet and keys, then cooperate and hand them over. Those can be replaced. If a physical assault appears likely, utilize self-defense techniques to protect yourself and escape the situation.
Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.
This material is intended to be a broad overview of the subject matter and is provided for informational purposes only. Joe Morten & Son, Inc. does not provide legal advice to its insureds or other parties, nor does it advise insureds or other parties on employment-related issues, therefore the subject matter is not intended to serve as legal or employment advice for any issue(s) that may arise in the operations of its insureds or other parties. Legal advice should always be sought from legal counsel. Joe Morten & Son, Inc. shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, action, or inaction alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the information contained herein. Reprinted with permission from Great West Casualty Company.