Vehicle Theft Prevention Month is an important time to raise awareness about the growing issue of vehicle theft and the steps drivers can take to protect their vehicles. With thousands of vehicles stolen every year, understanding prevention techniques and staying vigilant can make all the difference.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) hosts Vehicle Theft Prevention Month every July. NHTSA highlights the potential for motor vehicle theft, preventive measures consumers should take, the importance of addressing vehicle theft issues, and its significant economic impact.
Reducing Vehicle Theft
In 2024, more than 850,000 vehicles were stolen in the United States. This crime costs vehicle owners more than $8 billion each year. The summer season is the most common time for vehicle theft. Luckily, there are tips vehicle owners can take to reduce vehicle theft, including:
- Take your vehicle’s key; do not leave it in or on the vehicle and do not hide a spare key on or in the vehicle
- Close and lock all doors and windows when you park
- Park in well-lit, populated areas
- Do not unlock your vehicle while walking to it; wait until you reach the vehicle
- And, never leave valuables in the vehicle, especially where they can be seen from the outside
Aside from the vehicle itself, thieves want vehicle parts and valuable items. Radios and wheel covers are popular stolen items. However, thieves want whatever sells, such as engines, transmissions, airbags, GPS units, mufflers, etc.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
Fortunately, for vehicle owners, antitheft systems and devices designed to make vehicles more difficult to steal are available, including:
- Audible and Visible Devices: These devices, such as a horn alarm, deter theft by bringing attention to an unauthorized attempt to steal or enter a vehicle. Visible devices create a visual threat, such as the use of steering-wheel locks, flashing lights, and window etching
- Immobilizing-Type Devices: These devices prevent thieves from bypassing a vehicle’s ignition system and hot-wiring the vehicle
- And, Vehicle Recovery Systems: These devices use electronic transmission technology that help law enforcement reveal the location of stolen vehicles
What to do if Your Vehicle is Stolen
If you find yourself victim of vehicle theft, follow these steps:
- Contact the police immediately and file a stolen vehicle report
- Provide law enforcement with the license plate number, make, model, and color, and the vehicle identification number
- Contact your insurance company and file a claim within 24 hours of your vehicle being stolen
- And, if you find your vehicle before law enforcement, contact the police and your insurance company
Conclusion
Vehicle Theft Prevention Month serves as a crucial reminder for everyone to stay proactive in protecting their vehicles. By adopting simple yet effective prevention measures, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of theft and contribute to safer communities.