LAS VEGAS - Nobody wants to walk up to an empty parking space where our car is supposed to be parked. AAA Nevada offers tips to help avoid becoming a victim of car theft, and reminds drivers that almost half of all thefts are due to driver error, such as leaving the keys in the ignition or leaving the doors unlocked.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation reported an estimated 715,373 motor vehicle thefts nationwide in 2011, which translates to a vehicle stolen every 44 seconds. Those thefts total losses of more than $4.3 billion.
"Helping to prevent your car from getting stolen is important on many levels. It helps get people to work, kids to school, and business deliveries to customers," said Cynthia Harris, AAA Nevada spokesperson. "Additionally, if a vehicle is stolen, the crime can have an emotional impact as well."
Tips for preventing
auto theft
• Use multiple layers of protection: locked doors, stickers stating the car is protected, a steering wheel lock, immobilizing devices like kill switches or tracking devices.
• Remove your keys from the ignition and take them with you.
• Always use your emergency brake when parking; this makes it more difficult for a thief to tow your vehicle away.
• Never leave your vehicle running, even if you'll just be gone a minute.
• Park in a well-lit, populated area.
• Do not leave valuables in plain sight or in unattended vehicles. Even empty shopping bags, sunglasses or a change of clothes might look interesting to a thief.
• Do not leave the title inside your vehicle.
• Never hide a spare ignition key on the vehicle. Thieves look for keys in popular hiding places like inside a car bumper or wheel well.
• Contact your insurance company immediately after contacting the police to let them know your car is missing.
Auto theft is covered under the comprehensive section of an auto insurance policy, which is optional coverage. To make sure your AAA Insurance is adequate and up-to-date, or to get a quote on a policy, call (800) 207-3618 to speak to a AAA Insurance Representative.
AAA Nevada offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance, DMV, financial services and consumer discounts to more than 365,000 members. AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers since it was founded more than 100 years ago.
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