Summertime is here! As you pack up the car to head out on a trip, the last thing on your mind is becoming a victim of vehicle theft. Unfortunately, it is a very real possibility. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), more than 1 million vehicles were stolen in 2022, marking a 7% increase over 2021.
If you’re planning on a road trip, it’s important to remain alert and stay vigilant in order to keep you and your families safe.
Before heading out, drivers should double check their insurance policy. While liability insurance is required, comprehensive coverage is not. The NICB encourages vehicle owners to call their insurance agents to make sure they are covered in the event of a theft.
Beware of Carjacking
Some criminals have gone a step further by stealing a car with you in it – also known as carjacking. According to ABC News, carjacking increased dramatically in 2020. If you find yourself a victim of carjacking, it’s important to remain calm. Hand over your keys and remove yourself from the situation. Once you are safe, call 911 to report the incident.
Be sure to keep an eye out for NICB’s annual Hot Wheels and Hot Spots reports, which will highlight the top stolen vehicles in the nation as well as regions experiencing a rise in vehicle theft. The NICB works closely with our insurance industry, law enforcement, and manufacturing partners to provide statistical data about vehicle thefts, trends that may affect vehicle theft, and steps that can be taken to lessen these crimes.