HARTFORD, Conn. — For most people, a vehicle is a prized possession and an integral part of making ends meet.
Therefore, it is critical that vehicle owners take simple steps to prevent their investment from ending up in the hands of thieves. However, as AAA reports that vehicle theft is on the rise across the United States, Connecticut residents should be on alert and take preventative measures to thwart criminals.
July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. Even though August is less than a week away, AAA provided insight that can be valuable all throughout the year.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, there were an estimated 1,020,729 vehicles stolen nationwide last year alone. AAA reports that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that a motor vehicle is stolen in the U.S. every 31 seconds, and the highest activity occurs during the summer.
In 2022, there were 7,091 vehicles stolen in Connecticut, AAA said, noting that preliminary data for 2023 shows Connecticut auto thefts increasing by 33%, making it the third highest increase in the country.
AAA notes that technology and social media are playing an increasing role in the rising rate of vehicle thefts, as criminals use sophisticated methods to bypass security systems.
“Everything from keyless entry hacks to relay attacks on key fobs are being used by thieves, who are adept at exploiting vulnerabilities in modern vehicle security measures with disturbing success rates,” AAA said in the release, which notes that techniques are being shared online across the country.
Vehicle parts and valuables are considerable targets, AAA said. Criminals want anything from a vehicle that they can sell, whether it be a door, engine, transmission, air bag, stereo or GPS device. Catalytic converters are also popular items for thieves because of the valuable metals they contain.
Never leave valuables such as cellphones, iPads, laptops, wallets, weapons and purses in a vehicle, AAA advises. Vehicle theft is one of the nation’s most costly property crimes too – NHTSA estimates that the crime costs vehicle owners in the U.S. more than $8 billion each year in vehicle replacement, repairs and other costs.
“Vehicle theft has become a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S., but the victims are not the only ones to pay the price,” AAA Club Alliance spokesperson Tracy Noble said in the release. “Even if your car isn’t the one stolen, all vehicle owners are impacted through higher insurance rates and the cost of additional security measures.”
Emotional stress caused by vehicle thefts can’t be discounted either, AAA said.
While liability insurance is required in all 50 states, AAA reports that coverage against theft is optional regardless of your location. AAA encouraged drivers not to wait until a theft occurs to determine if you have comprehensive coverage.
“A thorough policy review with your local agent will ensure that you’re properly covered,” AAA Club Alliance Vice President Dan Scroggins, CIC, said.
In the release, AAA said one should never leave a vehicle running with the key in it, even if they’ll only be away a short time. Also, never leave your keys anywhere in your parked vehicle.
Close and lock all windows and doors of your car every time and everywhere you park it because thieves are more likely to steal an unlocked car, even if the keys aren’t in it. AAA also says to park in a well-lit area or somewhere where suspicious activity would be noticed by pedestrians or vehicle traffic.
It is important to keep valuables out of sight. Whether it be a package, shopping bag, electronics or money, having those items in plain sight is inviting to a thief. Parking with your wheels turned sharply with the emergency brake applied is also encouraged, as it makes your car more difficult to tow, AAA said.
Never roll your window down or stop for a suspicious person. If someone suspicious is parked near your car, keep walking; AAA said not to approach your vehicle in that situation.
Using visible warning devices can also deter thieves. Tracking and recovery systems are a wise addition as well because they can help reveal the location of your vehicle if it is stolen. In some cases, AAA said these devices can help catch a thief in the act.
If you become the victim of a car theft, AAA suggests contacting police immediately, contacting your insurance company within 24 hours of the theft, and contact the police and your insurance company if you find your vehicle before authorities do.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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