Automobile theft continues to bedevil individuals and businesses alike. As a member company, ICW Group is privy to highly detailed statistical reporting by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. As part of the NICB’s remarkable work in documenting, analyzing, and supporting the fight against insurance fraud and vehicle theft, clear trends are evident and, candidly, unsettling.
More than 1,020,700 vehicles were stolen in the U.S. in 2023—that is almost 2,800 vehicles stolen every single day! The volume of stolen vehicles has been rising for several years, perhaps plateauing in 2024 (too early to tell). Of note, there are definitive patterns related to the types of vehicles stolen and the locations from which these thefts occur.
Hyundai and Kia models occupy four of the top ten most stolen vehicles (no doubt influenced by the social media fad starting around October 2022 whereby certain Kia vehicles’ anti-theft measures were demonstrated being defeated). Geographically, California tops the list with twice as much theft as Texas, which in turn has nearly twice as much theft as Florida.
Although many stolen vehicles are subsequently recovered, this does not address the potential damage, loss of use, and consternation the owner suffers. Nor does it address the loss of the owner’s time. Therefore, it’s prudent to take all possible steps to prevent theft in the first place.
How to Prevent Auto Theft
Fighting auto theft involves a combination of security measures, awareness, and habits that make your vehicle less attractive or accessible to thieves. Here are five ways to help prevent auto theft:
- Lock your vehicle! This may seem obvious, but many car thefts occur because doors are left unlocked or windows are left open. Always double-check before leaving your vehicle.
- Park in a well-lit area. Thieves prefer the cover of darkness. Parking in well-lit, busy areas makes your car less attractive to thieves.
- Remove all valuables or items of possible interest from the vehicle. Items like laptops, bags, or phones visible in your car can attract thieves. Keep valuables hidden or remove them from the car.
- Use aftermarket products. This includes steering wheel/brake locks, GPS tracking services, car alarms, etc.
- Never leave your vehicle running. We’ve all been there. Pressed for time and “only going to be a second.” That’s all it takes, so don’t do it.
While no one technique or strategy can prevent every possibility, combining a measure of these strategies will significantly reduce the likelihood of your vehicle being stolen.
