The FBI reports that there were an estimated 715,373 motor vehicle thefts in the U.S. in 2011, resulting in losses of more than $4.3 billion—or more than $6,000 per vehicle. We want you to be equipped with the best tips and pointers for keeping your vehicle safe.
We know it's important to protect the things that matter to you. Your car doesn't just transport you from point A to point B; it's an investment. Taking some simple steps toward additional theft prevention precautions can help you avoid becoming a statistic, and keep your car exactly where you left it. The best part? Allstate has anti-theft discounts that reward you for safeguarding your vehicle.
Protecting your car doesn't have to be expensive. The easiest ways to protect your vehicle from theft are free of cost and may already be second nature to you. These good habits may help reduce your risk of theft significantly.
Many of today's newer vehicles come equipped with factory-installed security systems. While these help deter theft, there are some additional simple precautions that you can take whether or not you have a security system in your car:
- Don't make it easy for thieves. Always remember to lock your doors and remove valuables from plain view.
- Remove your keys from your ignition and keep them in a safe place, like your pocket or handbag.
- Ensure that your windows are completely closed.
- Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.
There's a reason car alarms are loud and obnoxious: causing a scene helps to deter vehicle theft . Installing an audible alarm system and placing alarm system identification marks on your vehicle send a message that would-be thieves should think twice about breaking into your car. Layering additional security measures like theft-deterrent decals, steering column collars, steering wheel and brake pedal locks, and window etchings only help to reinforce the message that your car is secure.
Technology is helping cars get smarter and harder to steal. Adding vehicle immobilizer devices and tracking systems greatly reduce your vehicle's risk of being stolen, and significantly increase the likelihood of having your vehicle recovered if stolen. Installing immobilizers like fuse cut-off switches; kill switches; smart keys with computer chips; and starter, ignition and fuel disablers all help prevent thieves from getting away with your car if it's "hotwired." Vehicle tracking systems can be associated with your VIN and emit a signal to police or a monitoring service in the event that your car is stolen.
On top of offering discounts to encourage people to equip their cars with anti-theft devices, Allstate has also donated Bait Cars to law enforcement agencies around the country. These specially equipped vehicles are outfitted with advanced technology and used by local law enforcement officials to catch car thieves in action. Bait cars look just like any other car, but they have hidden security features to remotely monitor any theft and disable the vehicle so that the car stops and locks the thief inside.
Follow one or follow all of these tips to help protect your vehicle, but adding Allstate insurance gives you great protection at a great price.
Are you in good Hands? Get a no-obligation quote, talk to your local agent, or call us at 1-866-621-6900 to see how we can help you save money when protecting your vehicle.