Motorbike hijackings are a reality

Hijacking on South Africa’s roads remains a serious concern. SAPS recorded 22,735 carjackings in 2023/24 — around 62–63 a day — and while that figure refers to carjackings, it’s a strong reminder that vehicle-related crime is a daily reality on our roads.

Quick answer: How do I reduce my risk on a motorbike?

Stay alert at robots and intersections (don’t get trapped at a full stop if you can safely slow-roll).
Watch for bikes with a pillion rider approaching fast or crowding your space.
If you suspect you’re being followed, don’t go home — go to a busy, well-lit public place.
Keep space to escape whenever you stop.
Plan a short “arrival routine” for your gate/driveway.

What hijackers look for (in plain terms)

Most criminals want speed, surprise, and minimal resistance. That usually means they target moments when:

you’re distracted (phone, music too loud, fatigue),
you’re forced to stop (robots, intersections, traffic),
you’re relaxed close to home (driveway/gate),
you don’t have an escape path.

Practical safety tips for motorcyclists

Don’t assume “another rider” is friendly

Yes, riders often look out for each other — but don’t let that become a blind spot. Be cautious of a motorcycle that:

stays in your blind spot,
repeatedly closes distance,
approaches with a pillion rider who looks ready to dismount quickly.

If your instincts spike, create distance, change direction, and head towards a busier route.

Keep an “escape bubble” at robots and intersections

When you stop, try to:

leave space in front of you (where possible),
avoid stopping right next to unknown pedestrians,
scan mirrors early and often,
reduce distractions (phone away, volume low).

If you can safely slow down early instead of coming to a complete stop, do that — especially late afternoon/evening when traffic thickens and attention drops.

If you think you’re being followed: change the script

If you suspect a vehicle or bike is tailing you:

don’t ride home
go to a well-lit, busy public place (a fuel station is often a practical option)
keep moving until you’re confident you’re safe
if you can, phone someone you trust and tell them where you are.

This “don’t go home” principle appears consistently in trusted SA safety guidance because the driveway/gate moment is a common vulnerability window.

Be extra cautious near home (the “arrival routine”)

The moment you slow down for your gate is when you’re easiest to box in. Build a routine:

slow down earlier, scan your mirrors,
check for cars/bikes parked oddly close,
if anything feels off, ride past and loop back later.

(You can even switch your indicator on earlier than your actual turn to avoid “broadcasting” your exact gate timing.)

Think “visibility and witnesses”

Criminals don’t like attention. Choose routes and stop points that are:

well-lit,
busier,
with cameras or staff nearby.

Do / Don’t (keep it simple)

Keep your head up and scan early.
Leave space to move at stops.
Ride to a busy public area if you’re unsure.
Vary your route and arrival timing occasionally.
Trust your instincts.

DON’T

Ride home if you suspect you’re being followed.
Stop in isolated spots to “check your phone”.
Let a bike with a pillion crowd your space.
Remove your helmet in a tense, uncertain situation.
Assume “it won’t happen to me”.

If the worst happens: what to do next

Once you’re safe:

Get to a secure location.
Call the police and report it (in SA, emergency line 10111).
Contact your insurer as soon as you can to start the claims process and get support.

Why insurance still matters

Even the best habits can’t remove risk completely. That’s why having the right motorcycle insurance (including theft/hijacking-related cover, depending on your policy) gives you financial protection and a clearer path to recovery.

Need cover that fits your bike and your budget?

Get a Miway quote and choose the protection that works for you: Insurance the way you want it.