Based on the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), practically 24% of Americans surveyed had anti-theft devices on the vehicles. Even so, of those with anti-theft devices, 25% said they do not constantly activate them.
Spending income on anti-theft devices does not help if drivers don't follow the simple precaution of locking their cars, taking the key and activating the anti-theft device they've installed.
Costs - Auto theft, a $7.5 billion organization, keeps growing in spite of a declining rate of theft across the nation, based on the newest FBI Uniform Crime Report.
In 1998, thieves stole 8.4 percent fewer cars than in 1997, but the average worth of each and every automobile stolen was $6,030, up 11 percent from 1997's $5,416, resulting in an overall dollar enhanced to $200 million over 1997.
What can you do?
The Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) predicts customers will spend over $400 million this season for electronics to protect their vehicles from theft. You might not need to invest significant levels of income to combat automobile thieves in your area; your risk depends on your location. Any mixture from the following theft prevention schemes can substantially reduce your risk. Experts suggest a five tiered program customized to your vehicle and geographic location (remember your behavior and the location considerably influence your vehicle's risk of becoming stolen).
"Motorists driving stealing-prone vehicles need to take further actions including installing an obvious deterrent just like a an alarm, steering wheel lock, a starter or fuel disabler along with a tracking device," says Robert Bryant, president and chief executive officer of NICB, the insurance coverage industry's theft and fraud fighting organization "The far more layers of protection in your vehicle, the a lot more hard it is to steal."
The first step is to use excellent judgment, park your automobile in well-lit areas, often eliminate your keys, and lock the doors.
The second step would be to use an alarm program which has sirens and flashing lights that call attention to a vehicle in the midst of the theft.
The third step uses anti-theft hardware such as steering brake/wheel pedal locks, shields and steering wheel covers, and durable steering column collars. They are able to be customized installed for the individual brand name. These items will stop most joy-riders, but experienced thieves can quickly dismantle them.
The fourth step involves immobilized devices for example starter and ignition cutoffs, and fuel system disablers.
The fifth and highest level of protection involves the use of complicated electronic tracking tools such as LoJack.
