Motor vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for most of us, and often, an indispensable part of our lives. But what would happen if yours suddenly disappeared? Vehicle theft is a very expensive crime, with the cost of stolen vehicles pegged at more than $4.1 billion – that’s billion with a “B.”
There were more than 670 motor vehicle thefts in Lexington County last year. Keys left somewhere in the vehicle was a factor in about 40 percent of those thefts.
It’s simple – yet often unheeded advice – always take your keys out of your car. You’d probably be surprised how many people leave their cars running when they go inside a store for a quick purchase. Whether they want to keep the car warm or cool, many just don’t want to turn the car of in the interest of some form of convenience.
I can assure this can easily lead to a great deal of inconvenience. Nearly 42 percent of all the vehicles stolen around the country are never recovered. It’s a costly and time-consuming ordeal to handle the aftermath of a stolen vehicle.
Items stolen from inside of your car can also create a headache for you. Every time you get out of your car, turn it off, remove all valuables from the car, close and lock all windows and doors, and take your keys with you.
If you’re not able to take the valuables with you, at least put them in the truck or make sure they’re not in plain view.
These are tried and true ways to greatly reduce your risk of having your car stolen.