For more than 10 years now, new stories of vehicle break ins have captured our attention. Initially, these were commonly a case of an unlocked vehicle parked in a location that presented an opportunity for a thief. I recall having someone enter my car one night and finding the cup which held change tossed aside in the yard. The thief did not want anything more than $3 in loose change. Over this period, car makers began utilizing keyless ignition. Now, when a thief sits themselves down in your drivers seat they simply press the ignition button and drive off.
These stories are being reported throughout the Greater Cleveland area;
The 30% uptick in stolen cars over a year ago is tied to soaring used car prices caused by tight supply from supply chain disruptions and heavy demand. In just a matter of months, your car and mine became highly attractive targets for thieves.
Unfortunately, as a result, vehicle owners across the board could see a bump in their insurance premiums. But those costs are nothing compared to the cost and stress associated with a stolen vehicle.
With that in mind, here are a few general guidelines to keep your car secure:
- Surprisingly, many vehicles are stolen after the driver leaves the keys inside. It’s common sense, but always take your keys or key fob with you as you exit your vehicle.
- Lock your doors and roll up your windows—even when your car is parked at home.
- Don’t leave valuables or anything else that might draw thieves’ interest. That includes your garage door opener.
- Park in well-lit areas and areas with high foot traffic.
- Consider a GPS tracker for your car that can help authorities find your vehicle in the event it is stolen.
Accidents are unavoidable and mistakes may occur. Making a habit of these guidelines will greatly reduce the likelihood of having a loss.
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