Atlanta

Atlanta police warning of scooter riders pretending to be hurt to steal your car

ATLANTA — Police in Atlanta say that if someone riding a scooter hits your car and seems like they got hurt, they might be trying to steal your car.

They say “bump and carjack” incidents have been on the rise. They see scooter riders bump into your car from behind and feign injuries to get you to check on them. That’s when someone else will hop into the driver’s seat of your car and drive away.

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While some accidents may actually be accidents, police are encouraging you to use your instincts. If something feels off, call 911 and wait for assistance.

They say if someone bumps into your car just enough to get your attention, you should lock your doors, call 911 and give the location and any details of the driver using your inside mirrors. They say you should absolutely not get out of your car.

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Once police and paramedics arrive, you can get out of your car and assess the damage and check on the person who hit you.

They say most accidents are real and they do not want to cause alarm, but want to make people aware so they can keep themselves safe.