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Auto Theft Prevention

Every 46 seconds, a motor vehicle is stolen in the United States. That’s roughly 1,879 cars stolen per day or 685,835 per year. The tips below can help safeguard your car from becoming part of the statistic. Some are obvious and others are not. Be proactive in protecting your vehicle from theft by considering the following:

  • Lock It Up – Close all windows, including sunroof, lock the vehicle and take your keys with you.
  • Use Your Garage – If you have one, use it. Don’t forget to lock your vehicle in the garage, too.
  • Leave a Trail – Drop your business card or address information inside your vehicle doors. Should your car be stolen this can help identify you.
  • Sound an Alarm – Considering having audio alarms installed on your vehicle if they don’t come standard.
  • Hidden Key – Do not hide a spare set of keys on your vehicle. Thieves know all the hiding places.
  • Protect Your Identity – Remove any important documents that contain personal information, like a bank statement or credit card bill, from your vehicle.
  • Strategic Parking – When parking on the street, park your vehicle somewhere well-lit with plenty of pedestrian traffic.
  • Turn It Off – Never leave your car running while unattended.
  • Remove Registration – Take your registration or title out of your vehicle.  If your vehicle is stolen this makes it harder for the thief to dispose of it.
  • Towed Away – Always use your emergency brake and turn your wheels toward the curb when parked. This makes towing your vehicle more difficult for thieves.

Sources:

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration—Vehicle Theft Protection: What Consumers Should Know

The Authority: 50 Tips for Auto Theft Protection

Insurance Information Institute

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