Car thefts and break-ins are at an all-time high. Many residential neighborhoods that were rarely subjected to crime are now finding it’s becoming an every night thing.
The good news is that you can significantly reduce the chances of being targeted for car theft by following a few simple tips.
Don’t leave valuable items in your car.
Car thieves are opportunists who are looking for easy targets. This means that you need to be aware of your surroundings and try not to make yourself an easy victim. It is critical that you do not leave valuable items in your car (iPhones, laptops). Not only will these attract criminals but they can also be damaged from exposure to the sun or rain. Many of today’s gadgets are pricey and they can contain a lot of information, making them highly valuable on the black market. It’s in your best interest to guard them closely.
Lock your car.
Even if you are only in the store for a few minutes, make sure to lock up! Breaking into an unlocked car is one of the most common ways that theft occurs. And it’s even better for the criminals as they don’t have to make noise or attract attention to get in and get your stuff.
Don’t leave your keys in the ignition.
We all know about the dangers of leaving your keys in the ignition, but it’s a common mistake that can lead to car theft. Don’t do this! Always take your keys with you so that only you have access to the vehicle at all times.
Park in well-lit areas.
It’s always a good idea to park your car in a well-lit area, especially so if you’re on vacation or traveling for work. If your car is parked in a dark place, it’s more likely that someone will see it as an easy target, and be sure not to leave anything visible inside of your car when you leave it unattended. You should even consider removing any valuables from your trunk before.
Install a car alarm system and anti-theft devices.
Your car’s stock security system is not the same as anti-theft devices. A car alarm is an audible alert that goes off when someone breaks into your vehicle, while an anti-theft device prevents them from being able to get inside if they do break in. Alarms can be connected to a monitoring service or be stand-alone, but either way, you’ll want one if you have a garage door opener or remote start installed on your vehicle; otherwise, thieves could use those features to enter your garage and steal your belongings without setting off the alarm at all!
Get car insurance
Your car is an investment and it is important to protect it with the right amount of insurance coverage. Whether you are an avid car enthusiast or simply an everyday commuter, your vehicle is an investment. Just like any other valuable object in your life, it needs protection. You wouldn’t leave the front door unlocked and leave your laptop on the kitchen counter, so why would you do that with your car?
If you have insurance on your vehicle and it is stolen you can file an insurance claim and work with the carrier on those items that are protected from theft.
Need car insurance that’s reliable in Connecticut? Petruzelo’s team of independent agents can help you shop around and find the right policy to fit your needs.