What to Do If You’re Followed While Driving
Driving in Johannesburg during December can feel stressful, especially with rising crime and busy holiday traffic. Many hijackings start with a car quietly following you. Staying alert and acting fast can help you avoid danger. This guide from Accend Security, serving Roodepoort and Randburg, explains what to do, where to drive, and how to reach help safely.
Why Road Awareness Matters in December
December brings heavier traffic, more night travel, and increased criminal activity. Hijackers often track a target for several minutes before striking. Because of this, knowing how to react early can prevent an attack.
Johannesburg has several high-risk zones, especially during load-shedding or quiet evening hours. Being alert on every trip — even short ones — keeps you safe.
How to Tell If Someone Is Following You
You may be followed if you notice the same car behind you through several turns or if it mirrors your lane changes. The driver may tailgate or slow down when you slow down. Trust your instincts early. It’s safer to act than ignore warning signs.
What to Do the Moment You Suspect You’re Being Followed
Stay calm and keep driving. Panic makes you unpredictable. Instead, stick to well-lit main roads and avoid dark side streets.
Do not drive home. Criminals target predictable patterns and may follow you to your gate. Rather, go to a public, crowded, and secure place such as:
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A petrol station
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A busy shopping centre
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A police station
Call someone right away. Tell them your route and why you feel unsafe. Keep your car doors locked and windows up. Leave space in front of you so you can move if needed.
If the car keeps following you, continue driving toward a 24-hour police station, a large garage, or a guarded entry point.
Safe Places to Drive Toward in Roodepoort and Randburg
Accend Security encourages drivers to know the nearest safe zones before travelling. Many incidents happen close to home. Knowing where to go helps you act fast.
Choose routes that take you past:
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24-hour petrol stations
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Major shopping centres
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Police stations
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Busy intersections
These areas have CCTV, people, lights, and responders nearby. If you are driving at night, stick to main roads such as Beyers Naudé, Christian De Wet, Ontdekkers Road, Malibongwe Drive, or Republic Road.
What Not to Do When Being Followed
Do not stop your car. Do not confront the driver. Do not roll down your window or get out.
Avoid sudden sharp turns or aggressive driving. These actions can escalate danger. The goal is to stay visible, stay moving, and stay in control.
Do not drive back home. Criminals often wait for the safety of a closed gate to trap victims.
Accend Security’s Role in Your Road and Home Safety
Accend Security offers more than just alarms. We help families plan safer routines and understand real security risks in Johannesburg.
Explore our services for better all-round security protection:
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CCTV Installation: https://accendsecurity.co.za/cctv-installation/
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Alarm Systems: https://accendsecurity.co.za/alarm-systems/
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24/7 Monitoring: https://accendsecurity.co.za/monitoring-services/
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Electric Fencing: https://accendsecurity.co.za/electric-fencing/
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About Accend Security: https://accendsecurity.co.za/about-us/
These tools protect your home while you focus on staying safe on the road.
Useful Safety Resources
Global and national sources provide additional guidance:
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South African Police Service: https://www.saps.gov.za/services/offences_vehiclerobbery.php
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Arrive Alive Hijacking Prevention Tips: https://www.arrivealive.co.za/Hijacking-Prevention-and-Safety
Final Thoughts
If you think someone is following you, act immediately. Stay calm, stay on busy roads, and head for a safe location. Call for help as soon as you can. The most important rule: Don’t go home.
Accend Security remains committed to helping Johannesburg drivers stay safe throughout the festive season. Stay alert and plan your routes carefully — your safety depends on it.
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