Carjacking is a type of robbery in which the criminal uses force or the threat of force to take possession and control of an automobile—usually when the victim is inside or near the automobile. Carjacking laws vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state’s penal code. Carjacking is also a federal crime when the stolen vehicle is transported, shipped, or received in interstate or foreign commerce (generally, transported across state lines).

In Alabama, carjacking is considered a serious criminal offense and is addressed under the state's robbery statutes. Specifically, Alabama law classifies carjacking as a form of first-degree robbery, which occurs when a person uses force or threatens the use of force against the victim with the intent to steal a motor vehicle. This is outlined in Section 13A-8-41 of the Alabama Code. The crime is a Class A felony, which carries severe penalties including a prison sentence that can range from 10 years to life, depending on the circumstances of the case and the criminal history of the offender. Additionally, if the carjacking involves the use of a deadly weapon or results in serious physical injury to another person, the penalties may be more severe. On the federal level, carjacking becomes a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 2119 when the stolen vehicle is transported across state lines or involves interstate or foreign commerce. Federal carjacking charges can lead to significant federal prison time and fines, especially if the crime resulted in harm to any person.