Vehicle theft is a worldwide crime that affects not only
the owner of the vehicle, but also affects the insurance
rates of all vehicle owners. According to nation wide statistics,
a vehicle is stolen approximately every 19 seconds in 1997,
over 1,500,000 vehicles were stolen. A high percentage of
the total number of vehicles stolen was a crime of opportunity.
Everyday, cars, trucks, motorcycles are stolen from malls,
convenience stores stores, streets, driveways, parking lots
and garages because the owner left the door unlocked, windows
cracked or left a valuable object out in plain view. This
is good news for most law abiding citizens because with
a little common sense, you don't have to be a victim of
vehicle theft..
There are some measures that can be taken to greatly decrease
the odds of your vehicle being the next statistic. Below
is a list of prevention tips that should be implemented
into your daily routine.
Prevention Tips
- Never leave your car unlocked.
- Never leave your car running unattended.
- Never leave your keys in the car ignition.
- Always roll your windows up and lock the car, even
if you are parked in your driveway.
- Never leave valuables out in plain view, even if your
car doors are locked. This is the number one reason cars
are broken into.
- Always park in busy, well-lighted areas.
- Invest in a mechanical device that locks the steering,
column or brake to prevent the wheel from turning. Commonly
referred to as a Club, collars or j-bars.
- Research for the purchase of an auto security system.
Many insurance agencies may give a discount for such a
security system. Check your current insurance agency now!
- Always leave just your ignition key with the attendant,
if you park at a garage or just simply dropping your car
off at a repair shop. Always make sure no additional information
is given.
- Always keep insurance information and registration
with you. Do not leave and personal information or credit
cards in the vehicle. A thief can use such information
to resale the car.
- Copy your license plate number and VIN numbers on a
card and keep them with your driver's license. If you
vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information
promptly.
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