July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. Many people in the United States rely on their vehicle as their primary mode of transportation. Yet, many are not familiar with or take enough precautions to keep their vehicles safe from thieves. According to NHTSA, nearly three-quarters of a million vehicles were stolen in the United States in 2015 and half of those thefts would likely have been avoided with some simple preventative measures.
Since over 40% of stolen vehicles are never recovered, here is what you can do to avoid becoming a victim:
- Don’t leave your car unlocked
- Take your key; do not leave it in the car
- Don’t leave any windows open
- Park in well-lit areas
- Install an anti-theft device (learn more here)
- Don’t leave valuables in the car
- Don’t leave the second set of keys in your car
- Park with the wheels turned towards the curb to make the car harder to tow
- Don’t leave your registration card in the car
- Have your VIN stamped on your windshield
If your car was stolen call the police and be prepared to give them the following information: a detailed description of your vehicle, the VIN number, license plate number. You can find more info on what to do when your car is stolen here.
We are aware that many of these tips are common sense and yet many people fail to take precautions, but we are sharing these tips in the hope that fewer people have their vehicle stolen due to a lack of awareness.
Stay safe and remember to lock the car, but don’t lock the kids or pets in the car!
Sources
https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/get-materials/vehicle-safety/vehicle-theft-prevention
http://www.safercar.gov/Vehicle+Owners/Resources/Theft+Prevention
http://www.autobytel.com/auto-news/july-is-national-vehicle-theft-protection-month-107624/
http://www.insurance.com/auto-insurance/claims/what-to-do-if-your-car-is-stolen.aspx