Vehicle Theft Protection

Vehicle Theft Protection

In the year 2023, the United States saw a staggering increase in vehicle theft, with over 1 million vehicles stolen—a 25% surge compared to previous years. This criminal act amounts to a multi-billion-dollar loss for vehicle owners, totaling more than $8 billion annually. The summer season emerges as the peak time for vehicle theft, prompting NHTSA to launch its yearly Vehicle Theft Prevention Campaign in July, marking it as National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.


 

Be smart when parking and stepping out of your vehicle:

  • Always take your car key with you; never leave it inside or on the vehicle.
  • Securely close and lock all windows and doors before leaving your car.
  • Opt for well-lit parking spots whenever possible.
  • Avoid leaving any valuables inside your vehicle, especially if they are visible from outside.

Remember, thieves are after both vehicle parts and valuable items.


Thieves are not just after radios and wheel covers when it comes to stealing vehicle parts. They target anything that can be sold, whether it's the required labeled components or those that are not. From doors and engines to transmissions, airbags, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, laptops, and purses, valuable items taken from vehicles vary widely.

 

Protection Options
Numerous anti-theft systems and devices have been specifically engineered to enhance the security of vehicles, making them more challenging to steal and easier to locate and retrieve. Here is a breakdown of how some of these innovative mechanisms operate:

  • Audible and Visible Devices: These innovative devices, like a blaring horn alarm, act as a deterrent to theft by drawing attention to any unauthorized attempt to steal or break into a vehicle. Visible devices create a strong visual warning, such as steering-wheel locks, theft-deterrent decals, flashing lights, and window etching, adding an extra layer of security.
  • Immobilizing-Type Devices: These advanced mechanisms prevent thieves from bypassing a vehicle's ignition system and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some feature computer chips in ignition keys or disrupt the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine, making it nearly impossible for thieves to drive away.
  • Vehicle Recovery Systems: Utilizing electronic transmission technology, these systems help law enforcement pinpoint the exact location of stolen vehicles, increasing the chances of catching the thief in the act and recovering the stolen vehicle promptly.
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What To Do?
If your vehicle falls victim to theft, here are the steps you should take:

Immediately contact law enforcement to report your stolen vehicle. Make sure to obtain a copy of the police report or a case number to provide to your insurance provider. Be prepared to share key information such as your license plate number, vehicle make, model, color, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and any unique identifying features.

 

Remember to contact your insurance company within 24 hours of the theft to file a claim. If you happen to locate your stolen vehicle before authorities, don't hesitate to reach out to the police and your insurance company promptly.

 

 

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