Our auto insurance rates are affected by many things, including theft. If your car is stolen or damaged and you must make an insurance claim to have it repaired or replaced, your auto insurance rates will likely see an increase.
With this in mind, it is important to do what you can to prevent your car from being stolen:
- Remove the keys from your ignition – This may seem like a bit of a no-brainer, but the fact of the matter is that many individuals leave the keys to their car in the ignition while the car is parked in their driveway. It is important to realize that car thieves are all too aware of this, which is why many individuals are shocked to find that their car was stolen from their driveway.
- Lock your doors – Don’t rely on your vehicle’s security system to keep your car from being stolen; instead, make a point to ensure that every door on your vehicle is locked.
- Use your vehicle’s security system – Just like door locks, vehicle security systems only work when they are utilized. Use your vehicle security system every time you exit your vehicle, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Many individuals are surprised to find that their vehicle was stolen in the few minutes that it took them to stop into a grocery store or a bank.
- Hide all valuables – Leaving valuables in plain view inside your vehicle tempts thieves to break into your vehicle, so don’t give them any reason to smash a window or damage your locks. Hide all valuables, including GPS systems, cell phones, purses and shopping bags.
- Roll your windows up all the way - Make a point to check all of your windows before exiting the vehicle. Often times, a vehicle window that is open just slightly allows a car thieve to slide a tool through the window and unlock the door.
- Park in well-lit areas – If at all possible, avoid dark parking lots and streets, not only to prevent a car theft, but to protect yourself, as well.
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