According to one of the latest reports by the national Insurance Crime Bureau California is home to six of the top ten auto theft locations in the USA.
Nancy Pierce, regional vice president of Geico’s San Diego location offers some tips on how to prevent your car from being stolen:
1. Always keep your keys on you and don’t leave them in the car at any time.
2. No matter how hot it is keep your windows closed when the vehicle is empty and keep your car locked at all times- even while driving.
3. Don’t leave valuables inside the car where they can be seen. Purchase should be locked in the trunk if you are not able to take them home immediately.
4. Park in well lit areas busy areas especially in the evening or over night as thieves do most of their work at night. Turning your wheels toward the curb or parking near some kind of obstruction will make it harder for criminals to tow your car away.
5. Car jackers commonly use a technique called “Bump and Rob”. They will bump your car from behind and then rob you of your items or steal your car when you get out to inspect the damage that the bump caused. If your car is bumped drive to a busy area or use your cell phone to call for help if you don’t feel that it’s safe to get out of the car. Always leave room in front of your vehicle to manover around the car ahead of you when stopped at traffic lights.
6. Insurers often offer discounts when anti-theft systems are used in your vehicle. You might try using and ignition cut off system which will prevent your car from being started; a steering wheel lock; or a passive alarm
7. In garages, parking lots and gas stations always take a good look around at the vehicles and people around you and your car. If you don’t feel safe get someone to accompany you to your car, or if you are still in your vehicle stay inside with the doors locked.
8. Hide your vehicle registration or title in a secret location that only the car owner knows.
9. Etch the cars VIN number on each window.
10. Do not resist if you are confronted by a carjacker. Your car can be replaced.
11. Travel the safest routes by using maps and try to avoid high crime areas.
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