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Tips for Preventing Car Theft

The last thing you want is for a thief to break into your car and steal. You’ve invested in your vehicle and take the time and care to maintain it. Protect your investment with these tips for preventing car theft by Freedom Collision Center:

1. Do not leave your car unattended while it is running. While it may be tempting to keep your car on while you run into the store real quick, especially when it’s very cold or hot, it can make you a prime target for theft.
2. Keep your car locked at all times. We recommend also keeping your doors locked while driving; that way, you are protected when at a stop.
3. Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out when getting into your car in areas like gas stations, parking lots, and parking garages.
4. Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle. If you must leave something in the car, avoid leaving them where passersby can see them. You don’t want to tempt a passing thief to break your window to steal something like a purse or other valuable.
5. If you are confronted by a carjacker, do not resist. It’s safest to surrender. Your vehicle can always be replaced, but you can’t be.
6. Have an anti-theft system installed in your vehicle. Thieves are reluctant to steal vehicles that can be recovered easily, so an anti-theft system can help deter theft.

Things You Need to Know About Car Thieves

There are a variety of types of thieves and tactics they use to steal vehicles, including:

Experienced Thieves

The majority of thieves that commit auto theft are professionals. High-performance cars are what professional thieves prefer. They also target more popular models whose parts are easy to interchange to prevent detection.

After they are stolen, vehicles are given over to chop shops where the car are taken apart, and the parts are sold. Cars are also stolen to be exported to other countries.

Bump and Rob Thieves

This is a tactic where thieves will bump into your vehicle and then steal it as you get out to check for damage. When you approach a stoplight, be sure to leave enough room in between you and the other car so you are able to maneuver around them if needed.

If you are in an accident and do not feel safe, be sure to drive to a more populated area or use your cellphone to contact the police.

Joy-Riding Thieves

These are people who steal cars, mainly luxury vehicles, to take a “joy ride.” These vehicles are typically recovered by police but will have likely suffered serious damage.

In a Collision? Contact Us Today!

If your car suffers damage from a collision or theft, we can help you get your car back in shape and out on the road in no time. Contact Freedom Collision Center today to learn more!