There’s a lot to think about when you own a car, including keeping it safe from thieves. Car theft is common in many parts of the country, so taking precautions is essential.
What are the steps you can take to help prevent car theft from happening to you? The simple things, like locking your doors, are the beginning, but there are other steps as well. With the practical tips below, you can protect your car and have peace of mind that it’s less likely to be stolen.
Park Wisely
Where you park can have a big impact on how likely your car is to be a target for theft.
Thieves often target cars that are parked in secluded areas or poorly-lit spaces, so parking in a well-lit area with high foot traffic can help both your car and you personally stay safer from people with bad intentions.
It’s also a good idea to park your car in a spot that’s close to a building entrance or security camera, as this can make it harder for thieves to steal your car without being noticed. If you’re at home and park in the garage, make sure the garage door is closed and that any side doors into the garage are locked.
Keep Valuables and Keys Outside the Car
Thieves are more likely to break into a car that contains visible valuables like laptops, cell phones, recent store purchases, and purses. Even if a car thief does not intend to steal the car itself, they may break into the car to steal these items, which can be costly.
Keeping your keys out of the car is equally important, as thieves can quickly drive away with a car if the keys are left inside. This is especially true for keyless start cars — if your spare is in the car, a thief can drive off in seconds.
Even if you’re just stepping away for a moment or consider the area to be “safe,” you don’t want to give anyone an opportunity to take your vehicle or personal belongings.
Use Anti-Theft Devices
Anti-theft devices are an important way to help prevent car theft. These devices include alarms, steering wheel locks, and GPS trackers, among others. Some of them deter anyone from trying to steal the car, and others help authorities find your vehicle quickly if it is stolen.
Because some of these devices reduce the risk of theft, you may even be able to get a discount on your car insurance plan when you use them. And choosing to carry comprehensive insurance will help if your vehicle is stolen. You can shop around and compare rates to find an insurance company that offers discounts, as well as the coverage you need for a price you can afford. Freeway Car Insurance can help you compare rates and get affordable coverage, which is another important way to protect yourself and your wallet in case your car is stolen.
Keep Your Car Safe from Thieves
Taking steps to protect your car from theft is an important part of car ownership. No preventative measure is foolproof, but the steps you take can deter thieves and make it easier to get your car back if it’s stolen.
Keep your car safe and enjoy peace of mind!
