DON’T LET THIEVES TAKE YOUR CAR: TIPS TO AVOID VEHICLE THEFT

You walk out to your car only to discover – nothing!  Where’s my car?  Can you image the feeling when you realize that your vehicle has just been stolen?
It could be the work of an organized theft ring or just a random individual crime.  In any case, auto theft is big business.  Car thefts seem to occur with greater frequency in places where large groups of cars are parked for extended periods of time: shopping centers, colleges, sporting events, movie theaters and large apartment complexes.  Car thefts can occur anytime — at random on different days of the week and times of the day, depending on the locations.

On average, according to the Insurance Information Institute, a vehicle is stolen every 29 seconds in the United States at a cost of about $7.4 billion a year.  Your insurance will cover this type of loss ONLY if you have comprehensive coverage.  A deductible may or may not apply, depending on the specifics of your policy.  The number and related cost of insured cars stolen directly affect the price you pay for your insurance premiums.

By taking a few precautions, you can make your vehicle–and your wallet–less vulnerable.

  • Never leave your car running unattended, even to dash into a business, store, etc.  Many vehicles are stolen on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up.  Leaving your key in an unattended motor vehicle is a crime in some states.
  • Never leave any keys in the car or ignition, inside a locked garage, or in hide-a-key boxes.  Never hide a second set of keys in your car.  Extra keys can easily be found if a car thief takes time to look.  Nearly 20% of all vehicles stolen had the keys in them.
  • Never leave valuables visible, even if your car is locked.  Put them in the trunk out of sight.
  • Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle title or credit cards in your vehicle.
  • Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home.  Approximately 50% of all vehicles stolen were left unlocked.
  • Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas.  Over half of all vehicle thefts occur at night
  • Always park with your wheels turned towards the curb: make your car tough to tow away.  Wheels should also be turned to the side in driveways and parking lots.  If your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway.  Front-wheel drive vehicles should be parked front end first.
  • Always use your emergency brake when parking.  In addition to ensuring safety, using the emergency brake makes your car harder to tow.
  • Always use your garage: if you have a garage, take the time to use it rather than parking outside where your vehicle is more vulnerable.  When parking in a garage, lock the garage door and your vehicles—this easy precaution greatly improves the chances of deterring a thief.

These additional security actions will help protect your vehicle:

  • Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes.  These devices will deter some criminals.
  • Consider purchasing a vehicle theft-tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently-stolen model vehicles.
  • Enable Alarms.  Loud warnings sound when doors/hood/trunk are opened. Optional sensors include glass breakage, motion, tampering and towing.  Panic buttons, back-up batteries, flashing parking lights or headlights and automatic engine-disable features are also recommended
  • If you must leave your key with a valet, attendant, or mechanic leave only the ignition key. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable firm.
  • In high theft areas the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should be etched on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid.  This makes it difficult for a thief to market your stolen car parts.
  • Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you.  If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to take a report.

Many vehicles today come with some type of security system from the factory.  Normally there are upgraded systems available if you ask.  The best choices are systems that shut off the fuel supply so that a car can’t be started or driven.  If all efforts fail and your vehicle is stolen, report it to the police immediately.

Remember—you can help protect yourself by developing good safety habits such as protecting your home, family, and loved ones by installing a free ADT Home Monitored Alarm System today!