High-speed pursuits remain one of the most dangerous situations law enforcement can encounter. In fact, tens of thousands of these incidents occur every year, resulting in nearly 360 deaths annually, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The good news is that OnStar’s Stolen Vehicle Assistance technology can help prevent these hazardous scenarios from developing, as well as assist in bringing a high-speed chase to a safe conclusion. It also can help locate a stolen vehicle even when the vehicle isn’t moving.
How does Stolen Vehicle Slowdown (1) work?
• Once an OnStar (2) customer reports a stolen vehicle to law enforcement (and that agency treats the vehicle as stolen), the customer calls OnStar and requests Stolen Vehicle Assistance.
• An OnStar Advisor uses GPS technology to locate the vehicle and relay the information to law enforcement. (The Advisor also sends a Remote Ignition Block signal on select vehicles to prevent the vehicle from starting at the next ignition attempt.)
• Once law enforcement has the vehicle in clear sight, the Advisor sends a signal to flash the exterior lights, confirming the vehicle’s identity.
• When law enforcement indicates conditions are appropriate, the Advisor sends a signal to reduce the vehicle’s engine power, gradually slowing it (while maintaining steering and braking functions), so the vehicle can be pulled safely to the side of the road.
• After the suspect is apprehended, OnStar can re-enable the vehicle at the request of law enforcement, allowing it to be driven from the scene.
In short, Stolen Vehicle Slowdown not only works to recover an OnStar customer’s vehicle; it also helps protect law enforcement officers and innocent civilians in the process, making it a win-win for everyone involved.
Learn more about Stolen Vehicle Slowdown by visiting onstar.com/publicsafety
(1). Stolen Vehicle Slowdown and Remote Ignition Block are available on select OnStar-equipped 2009 model and newer vehicles. Visit onstar.com for details. Success varies with conditions.
(2). OnStar service requires vehicle electrical system (including battery), wireless service and GPS satellite signals to be available and operating for features to function properly. OnStar acts as a link to existing emergency service providers. Subscriptions Service Agreement required.