Ahwatukee Living’s Ask the Experts

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PREVENTING AUTO THEFT

Would you believe that 4,547 cars are stolen every day in the United States? Think about that…4,547! It’s a staggering figure. That comes out to a total of one car stolen every 19 seconds. And about the same number of cars are broken into and have accessories stolen. All in all, over 2.5 million cars are broken into or stolen every year in the US. And to make you feel even better, Arizona is the number one State for theft in the country!

The overwhelming majority (80-85%) of all auto thefts are done by amateurs. Basic security measures confuse, discourage, and just plain scare away your average car thief.
If you make it time-consuming or risky to steal your car, chances are, the thief will move on to another one.

Following are just a few tips on preventing auto theft;
Mechanical Devices:

• If you have standard door lock buttons (mushroom shape), replace them with slim tapered kind. These are almost impossible to pull up with a coat hanger (a favorite car thief trick)


• There are a wide variety of devices made specifically for preventing theft. These range from electronic mechanisms that “sense” intruders at the hood, trunk or doors (and then sound very loud alarms) to bulky instruments that cover the steering wheel and/or steering column. Either way this can discourage criminals.

• Never put an identification tag on your keys. If you have a set of spare keys, do not hide them in the car. Thieves know all the hiding places.


• When parking, first and foremost, roll up the windows tight, and lock all the doors.


• NEVER leave your car running, or your keys inside.


• Park in well lit areas. Always park with your wheels turned sharply. 10% of all stolen cars are towed away. Sharply turned wheels make towing especially difficult.


• If parking in long term lots, find a spot toward the middle, rather than a place along the edges of the lot. The easiest “pickings” are the cars on the outskirts.

• While driving, keep the doors locked and windows rolled up to make it difficult for someone to reach in.


• Stay alert – especially at a stop sign or red light.


• Keep your purse or wallet out of view


• Always have your keys ready to unlock the door quickly when walking to your parked car.


• If an armed car jacker approaches you give up the vehicle. Fighting or arguing could put your life in jeopardy

If you car is stolen there are a few things you must do to prepare yourself for the unfortunate event of an auto theft.

• Never leave your registration in the car. You should carry it on you.


• Never leave important paper or credit cards in the car.


• Never leave an electronic garage door opener in the car. If a thief has it he could use it to rob your home.


• Finally if your car is stolen, report it immediately to the police and your Farmers agent. Early reporting, along with and vital information you can give, could help the police recover it; or could at least help your agent get you back in the drivers seat of another car as soon as possible.

If you would like any further information or a free review to find out if you can offer you a savings on your current insurance program please contact me at 480-598-1110 or visit my website at www.AhwatukeeInsurance.com.

Posted on September 7, 2004