It’s no urban legend – car jamming is a reality, and is becoming frequent problem

Know the facts and protect yourself

You drive to a shopping centre, click your remote and as you leave the car you assume that it is locked. Right? Wrong. By blocking out the reception of transmitted signals and interfering with the receiving device, car jammers have effectively prevented the locking action of the car from being activated.

These criminals are often part of a gang and are adept at distracting drivers as they ‘lock' their car doors. The result is that the mental note one would normally make of the locking ‘beep' or flashing lights is not made. Once the driver walks away, the thief quickly removes expensive items from inside the car and boot.

Does Insurance Cover Jamming?

So, you've had your car jammed and robbed – as a result your trip has turned out to be a very expensive one. But you thank your lucky stars that you're insured. Peter Olyott, MD of Indwe Risk Services warns, "Drivers should never assume that their policy automatically covers the losses resulting from car jamming. Without any visible signs of forced entry, it's pretty hard to prove that you didn't simply forget to lock your car.”

However, all is not lost. If you are ever a victim of car jamming, make sure that you:

· Report the incident to the police and get a case number

· Have proof that the stolen items belonged to you

· Specify the value of the stolen items

· Are able to prove that there was no negligence on your part

Outwit Jammers By:

· Concealing any items in your vehicle or even better, taking them with you

· Standing close to your car when you use the remote locking key

· Listening for the beep of your alarm system and the sound of the locking mechanism

· Checking that every door and windows is actually locked before you walk away

· Parking as close as possible to the entrance of the building

· Being alert at shopping centres, public car parks and outside your child's school

Remember to speak to your insurance broker to find out whether your policy covers you for car jamming.