Did you know that a vehicle is stolen every 41 seconds in the United States? More than 765,000 drivers are victims of vehicle theft each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
For many of us, automobiles are a part of daily life, from commuting to work to enjoying time with loved ones. Summers are typically a common time of year for vehicle theft, so it’s a good time to keep the following tips in mind.
Vehicle Theft Prevention Tips
- Keep valuables out of sight. (Better yet, don’t keep items such as your cell phone, laptop, wallet, or purse in your vehicle.)
- Take your key with you when you exit your vehicle. Don’t leave it inside or on your automobile.
- Don’t leave your car running while you dash into the post office or run another quick errand.
- Close and lock your windows and doors before leaving your vehicle unattended.
- Always try to park in an area that is well-lit.
Steps to Take After Vehicle Theft
Contact the police and file a stolen vehicle report. Then, contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours. Your insurance company will need a copy of the police report and/or a case number. You might also need to provide your license plate number, the make/model/color of the vehicle, and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
If you or someone you love has been injured in an automobile accident, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
