Protecting Your Vehicle From Auto Theft
A vehicle was reported stolen every 40.9 seconds in the U.S. with an average loss per theft of $7,708 in 2017, according to the Insurance Information Institute. With July and August consistently ranking as the top two months for vehicle thefts, here are nine tips to help prevent you from becoming an auto theft victim:
When unattended, keep your vehicle's windows and sunroof closed and doors locked.
Don't leave your car running and unoccupied, no matter how briefly.
Never leave the key fob or keys in your vehicle.
Park in well-populated, well-lit areas at night.
Never leave valuables in your vehicle.
Consider getting an aftermarket (one that is not factory installed) alarm system.
Install a vehicle immobilizer (kill switch, ignition disabler).
Use a GPS-based tracking system that emits a signal from your auto to police once you report it stolen.
Get an RFID signal-blocking protector for your key fob, or place the fob in a metal box, to thwart thieves using a relay-cloning device from gaining access to your vehicle.
If your vehicle is stolen, call the police immediately to file a report. Also, contact NJM within 24 hours of the theft to file a claim.
NJM Insurance Group’s Commitment to Safety
NJM’s enduring commitment to safety can be traced back to our earliest days — with a focus that has expanded from improving conditions in manufacturing facilities to helping keep customers safe on the roads and at home. NJM is a leader in personal and commercial auto, homeowners, and workers’ compensation insurance.
References:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), “Vehicle Theft Protection,” https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/vehicle-theft-prevention.
“Prevent Auto Theft — Don’t Make Your Vehicle an Easy Target,” https://www.nicb.org/prevent-fraud-theft/prevent-auto-theft