Auto Theft is a Big Problem. Are You Protected?

There were nearly 700,000 motor vehicle thefts nationwide in 2013. Although 2014 showed a slight decrease, it continues to be a real problem. It is estimated that $4.5 billion is lost on motor vehicle thefts.

According to the FBI, a motor vehicle is stolen in the United States every 44 seconds!

Making the problem more aggravating is that for every 10 vehicle thefts, only slightly more than half (56%) are recovered, and about one is successfully prosecuted!  In 2012, for example, only 11.9 percent of auto thefts were cleared, either by arrests or by exceptional means, compared with 20.4 percent for arson and 19.0 percent for all property crimes. To make matters worse, many of the vehicles recovered are damaged or destroyed. Source: Insurance Information Institute

Be careful where you park your car, and what you leave in it. If you don't have a garage, make sure to have motion lights that will deter a would-be thief. When you're not at home, park in a well-lit area, and always lock your car. A survey of American drivers conducted in April 2007 on behalf of the National Insurance Crime Bureau found:

• • One-third admit they have left their car while it was running, which makes the vehicle an easy target for theft.
• • 47% don't always park in a well-lit area.
• • 40% don't hide their valuables. In fact, nearly half leave mail in their vehicle, a quarter have left a purse or wallet, and almost a third have left bank statements, all of which can put them at risk for identity theft.

It Costs You!

Although 75% of respondents know that there are costs associated with vehicle theft in addition to paying the insurance deductible and the cost of replacing the vehicle that are not covered by insurance, virtually none knew that there are additional costs such as:

• • Insurance premium increases
• • The cost of time spent dealing with police
• • Vehicle rental costs
• • Cost of time off from work.  

The survey was conducted by Opinion Research Corporation.

Make Sure You're Adequately Protected!

Auto theft is covered by the optional comprehensive coverage on an auto policy. Without it you're on your own if your car gets stolen or vandalized. Don't take that chance! You can choose from a range of deductibles that will affect your premiums. The higher the deductible you choose, the lower your rates will be. SAV-ON Insurance agents are happy to help you figure out the best rate for your vehicle and save you money, too. Call us today at 888-867-2866 for a free estimate, or come in to any of our offices.