For the millions who rely on their cars as primary transportation, having their car stolen is a nightmare scenario. Such an ordeal can leave you feeling helpless, confused and angry.
Car theft has grown from petty crime to big business. According to the FBI, more than 715,000 vehicles valued at more than $4.3 billion were stolen in 2011. Car thieves typically sell stolen car parts for even more.
To prevent you from being victimized by car thieves, the car accident attorneys of Hupy and Abraham, S.C. have put together a list of tips to keep your car safe.
- Lock Your Doors – Car thieves are too skilled as it is, don’t make it easy for them! Also, remember to close the windows and sunroof.
- Hide Valuables – Don’t leave phones, electronic devices or any other expensive items where people can see them. Do not give car thieves an extra incentive to choose your car!
- Park Near Street Lights – Parking in well-lit areas will force a thief to worry about being seen.
- Install an Alarm – Cars that make loud noises scare away thieves.
- Do Not Keep Your Registration in Your Car – Sometimes, car thieves get pulled over by the police, but still get away by presenting the car’s registration.
- Apply Parking Break – Sometimes, cars are stolen with a tow truck. Use your parking brake and turn your wheels toward the curb to make this as difficult as possible.
Another thing you can do to deter thieves is to engrave your Vehicle Identification Number on expensive parts. That way, even if your car is stolen, the thieves will have a hard time selling the parts and cashing in on their crime.
Hopefully, you never experience the unsettling feeling of returning to your car only to find a vacant parking spot. If your car is stolen in a parking garage, apartment complex or other public place, the property owner may be responsible. Call the negligent security attorneys of Hupy and Abraham, S.C. if your car is stolen due to the negligence of others.