July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is raising awareness about vehicle theft prevention for vehicle owners in July.

A vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the United States, on average. Passenger cars historically account for about 74% of all stolen vehicles. Vehicle theft is a prevalent problem disrupting daily routines, incurring expensive financial losses and causing significant stress and hardship.

Auto Theft Surges Locally

Approximately 1,020,729 vehicles were reported stolen in 2023, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). The following locations saw the greatest increases in vehicle thefts between 2022 and 2023:

1. District of Columbia (up 64%)
2. Maryland (up 63%)
3. Connecticut (up 33%)
4. Nevada (up 18%)
5. Massachusetts (up 16%)
6. Delaware (up 15%)
7. New York (up 15%)
8. Pennsylvania (up 13%)
9. Nebraska (up 12%)
10. Louisiana, North Carolina and Tennessee — (each up 10%)

Preventing Car Theft

There are a few things you can do to help protect your vehicle from theft:

• Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, which may tempt criminals to break in.
• Park in secure and well-lit areas.
• Lock doors and windows and never leave keys inside your vehicle.
• Use a steering-wheel lock and install a GPS tracking device.
• Report suspicious activity or individuals loitering near your car to authorities.
• Never keep important paperwork, such as the car title, in your vehicle.
• Consider adding motion-sensing lights or security cameras near your home where you park.
• Use a secure parking facility or locked garage when possible.

Be Sure

Not all policies provide theft coverage. The right auto insurance policy may make all the difference in helping you recoup damages, repair or replace your vehicle, and get back on the road with minimal hassle. Review your insurance coverage with your agent to ensure you are covered in case your car is stolen.

If you have questions about your policy, or would like a quote on personal or commercial auto insurance, call or text the local insurance experts at Deeley today: 410-213-5600.