Protect Your Vehicle

Even though car manufacturers have included sophisticated anti-theft devices in their vehicles, such as engine immobilisers and keyless ignitions, thieves have discovered ways to sidestep them. Unfortunately, there has been a 30 per cent increase in the number of vehicles stolen over the past three years, according to government data. What’s more, the number of insurance claims for stolen vehicles jumped 25 per cent from the third quarter of 2016 to the third quarter of 2017, according to the Association of British Insurers.

Despite this heightened exposure to vehicle theft, there are steps that you can take to reduce your risk of being targeted. Considering adopting the following seven pieces of advice:

1. Only park in secure garages, buildings or fenced-in areas. Alternatively, you could try and park somewhere that you would have a  clear view of your vehicle.
2. Install perimeter lighting, intruder alarms and a closed-circuit television outside your home.
3. Keep your keys somewhere secure within your home, away from any windows.
4. Don’t leave any valuables, high-end electronics or tools in your vehicle.
5. Consider using anti-theft devices, such as a steering wheel lock or a fuel cut-off switch.
6. Have a tracking device installed in your vehicle.

Have your vehicle’s windows etched with its registration number or the last seven digits of the vehicle identification number, as this makes it harder for criminals to sell your car and easier for the police to identify it.

2018 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. This publication is for informational purposes only . It is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as compliance or legal advice. In relation to any particular problem which they may have , readers are advised to seek specific advice. Further , the law may have changed since first publication and the reader is cautioned accordingly.