Vehicle Theft Prevention: What Consumers Should Know 

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Vehicle Theft Prevention

Motor vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for most Americans, and often, an indispensable part of their lives. They are used for a myriad of reasons, including going to work, school and the grocery store. But what would happen if that vehicle suddenly disappeared? Many would find it difficult, if not impossible, to take care of even the simplest everyday errands.


REDUCING MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT
Insurance and rental/leasing companies are vital partners with consumers and law enforcement in reducing the number of vehicle thefts every year and decreasing overall losses from vehicle theft. Each year, NHTSA collects and analyzes data from these companies on their efforts to prevent and discourage vehicle theft. This fact sheet summarizes NHTSA's key insights from the most recent reports and arms companies, citizens and law enforcement with the information they need to educate people in their communities and to promote vehicle theft prevention. Read the full report here.
A MOTOR VEHICLE IS STOLEN EVERY 33 SECONDS IN THE UNITED STATES.
The top ten reported stolen vehicles from NHTSA's 2008 theft rate data compilation are:
Dodge Magnum
Pontiac Grand Prix
Mitsubishi Galant
Chrysler 300
Chrysler Sebring
Chrysler Pacifica
Hyundai Sonata
Chrysler PT Cruise
Hyundai Azera
Dodge Charger
DID YOU KNOW?
  • 40-50% of vehicle theft is due to driver error.
  • The top two months for vehicle thefts are July and August.
  • Only about 57% of stolen vehicles are recovered.
USE COMMON SENSE WHEN PARKING AND EXITING YOUR VEHICLE.
  • Take your key; don't leave it in or on your vehicle.
  • Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
  • Park in well-lit areas - in a garage, if possible.
  • Never leave valuables in your vehicle, and specially in sight.
WE ARE ALL SUSCEPTIBLE TO VEHICLE THEFT.
The ten (10) U.S. States with the most stolen vehicles are:
1. California
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. Illinois
5. Georgia
6. Nevada
7. Maryland
8. North Carolina
9. Arizona
10. Missouri / New Jersey
THIEVES WANT PARTS AND VALUABLE  ITEMS, TOO.
Radios and wheel covers aren't the only popular stolen vehicle parts thieves take. They want whatever sells, from the mandated labeled parts to those that aren't. Among some of the most popular parts or items left in vehicles are: engine, transmission, air bags, radios, GPS units, iPods, laptops, and purses.