Car break-ins are a common crime and can happen when you least expect it, even in your own neighborhood. Walking up to your car and seeing shattered glass from your broken window is one of the worst, violating feelings. Not only is your vehicle damaged, but your personal belongings have been rummaged through and stolen. This is enough to infuriate anyone.
While there is no way to completely prevent car theft, there are several methods you can use to deter thieves. First and foremost, make your vehicle less of a target. Don’t let your vehicle look like a good opportunity, take simple actions to prevent theft.
HIDE YOUR PERSONAL ITEMS
Thieves are looking for items of value, iPads, computers, watches, money etc. If an item in your car has value, HIDE IT. Think out of sight, out of mind. Most the time, a thief is looking for a quick buck. If you leave an iPad sitting on your back seat, it’s a sure bet that your vehicle will be broken into over someone else’s. Keeping your car clean and hiding any personal items can go a long way in deterring car break-ins. Remember that even covered items, boxes, or briefcases can be a target because it could contain something of value. If you must keep items in the car hide them in the glove compartment or trunk. Often thieves do not have enough time to check your trunk and will only grab the easily accessible items in the interior of the car.
KEEP YOUR CAR SECURE
This seems like a no-brainer, but often by mistake, people leave their car unlocked or sometimes even running with the keys still in! To prevent this from happening to you, get in the habit of locking your car right when you get in or out the vehicle. Fortunately, newer cars will self-lock for you, but regardless it’s a good idea to get in the habit of checking to make sure your vehicle is secure.
BE AWARE OF WHERE YOU ARE PARKING
Thieves don’t want to get caught so they tend to target vehicles in low traffic, low lit areas first. Try to park in heavy traffic areas where there are cameras or people around, the more eyes the better. Large parking lots are generally safer than small lots or side street neighborhood parking. When parking at night try to park near a streetlight or well-lit parking lot to prevent a car break-in. Criminals don’t want to be seen, they will go after cars that are easy to break in unnoticed.
INSTALL A TRACKING SYSTEM
If the worst happens and your car is stolen, a tracking system will help the police find it. Most mobile phones now even have free apps that help you locate your car. This could make all the difference in tracking down your stolen vehicle.
CONSIDER ADDING ADDITIONAL COVERAGE
Even though you have taken all the necessary precautions, your vehicle could still be targeted. There are several insurance policies that can help protect you vehicle theft:
Comprehensive Coverage: If your vehicle is stolen, this type of car insurance coverage can help pay for a replacement car. If you live in any area where car theft occurs more frequently than normal, this could be a good option for you.
Renters Insurance: Most people are not aware, that renters insurance can potentially cover items stolen from your vehicle. If you currently have renters insurance, talk to you current provider to see if you are covered for vehicle theft.
Contact a car insurance specialist at Grindell & Romero Insurance to answer any of your auto insurance questions. Providing auto insurance to Las Cruces, NM and surrounding areas since 1888. Call today for a free car insurance consultation and quote.
