Auto left happens more often than most think. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a car is stolen every 45 seconds in the United States. Almost 700,000 vehicles are reported stolen every year.
Here are some tips to help protect your car:
- Never leave your keys in the car. Leaving your keys in the ignition is a “steal me” sign to car thieves. During the winter, don’t leave you keys in the ignition while you defrost the windshield and warm up the car.
- Keep your vehicle locked at all times. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is ignored all too often. A surprising amount of car thefts occur when the owner leaves the door unlocked. Don’t forget to lock your car, even if you’re just running in to a store for a few minutes. It doesn’t take long to steal a car.
- Shut your windows and sunroof. Spring means windows left open. As the weather starts to warm up, remember to close your windows and sunroof when leaving your car unattended. Vehicle thefts occur more frequently during July and August. Leaving them open, even just a crack, encourages a break-in.
- Avoid leaving valuables in the car. Purses, suitcases, shopping bags, smart phones, and GPS devices entice thieves. Don’t leave items inside your vehicle that can be seen in plain sight. Keep all valuables in the trunk, if you need to leave them in the car.
- Park wisely. Be cautious, particularly at night, about where you park your vehicle. If possible, park in a well-lit area or secure garage. Thieves are less likely to mess with a car that’s parked under bright lights.
In addition to the above safety tips, you may want to confirm you have ‘comprehensive’ coverage as part of your insurance program. Comprehensive coverage will help cover the cost of replacing a stolen car. There are many options when it comes to auto insurance and you want to make sure you and your family are completely covered to avoid serious financial consequences.
Call Today for a Quote!
The experienced insurance agents at Berliner-Gelfand & Co, Inc. in Connecticut have been helping individuals and families protect themselves for more than 50 years. We can help you select the right auto insurance coverage for you, so please contact our office for a quote today. (203)-367-7704