Simple steps to take to stay safe and reduce vehicle theft

STEPS TO TAKE TO ENSURE YOUR VEHICLE ISN’T STOLEN

According to the Insurance Information Institute, more than 700,000 motor vehicles were reported stolen in the United States in 2015. Car theft is not exclusive to the United States, as the Insurance Bureau of Canada reports that automobile theft costs Canadians roughly $1 billion each year.

Take Precaution

Car thieves are often highly skilled, but that does not mean car owners cannot take steps to reduce their risk of being victimized by auto theft. Take the simple steps, such as suggestions like keeping cars locked at all times and rolling up all windows before walking away from the car. These may sound simple, but they’re also very effective. Drivers should avoid being careless no matter how briefly they plan to be away from their vehicles. Talented thieves need only a few seconds to steal a car; so don’t make it any easier for them than it already is.

park in well-lit areas

Well-lit parking lots may not prevent cars from being stolen, but such lots, especially ones monitored by security cameras, can be a strong deterrent. Thieves who want to avoid being seen and having their crimes documented on camera will steer clear from well-lit areas.

Park in Public Areas

Avoid parking in areas that are off the beaten path. While this might make for easy parking, such areas are also enticing to prospective car thieves worried about people witnessing their crimes. When parking at grocery stores, malls or other areas with large parking lots, park as close to pedestrian entrances as possible. Constant foot traffic can deter thieves from attempting to steal cars, but parking in a quiet, empty area can lead thieves to that particular vehicle.

Install Alarm System

Installing an alarm system and antitheft device will also help keep thieves away. Insurance companies often discount their premiums for drivers whose vehicles have alarm systems and anti-theft devices. Such systems and technology draw attention to vehicles when thieves attempt to steal them, and many thieves can easily

Remove Personal Items

spot which cars have anti-theft devices they would prefer to avoid. Even if a thief tries to break-in to that vehicle, the alarm system will scare them away.

Remove personal items and valuables, such as laptops, phones, jewelry and other treasured items. Automobiles should not be used as rolling storage facilities for various reasons. One such reason is that valuables may attract thieves. Women should always take their purses with them when leaving their vehicles, and all drivers should make sure to remove all valuables when exiting their cars. Car theft is a legitimate concern for drivers, but savvy motorists can take steps to reduce the risk of their vehicles being stolen.