Did you know one motor vehicle theft was reported every 41 seconds in the United States in 2017? The FBI reports there were an estimated 773,139 motor vehicle thefts nationwide in 2017. In Texas, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety, more than 65,000 cars and trucks are stolen, and almost 200,000 are burglarized each year. One of the main reasons why so many vehicles are stolen in the LoneStar State--the keys were left inside unlocked vehicles.
The simple step of locking your vehicle and taking the key or fob with you when you leave it could potentially save you thousands of dollars and one major headache.
The NICB has joined with the Texas Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority to encourage you to take all necessary steps to stop auto theft.
The NICB wants to continue to show our support for the statewide campaign urging drivers to lock up their vehicles not just in Texas but everywhere. Thieves will target all kinds of vehicles, which is why we encourage consumers to use common sense by securing their vehicles and removing the fob or key.
For more information about the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority and the Texas “IF YOU LIKE IT, LOCK IT” state auto theft campaign visit www.txwatchyourcar.com
Protect Your Vehicle
- Always lock your vehicle and take your keys.
- Never leave your car running and unattended.
- Park in a well-lit area.
- Take valuables with you when you are not in your vehicle.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Give parking attendants the ignition key only. Keep your trunk and glove box locked at all times. If possible, get separate keys for the ignition and the trunk and glove box.
- Install an anti-theft device. Many insurance companies may give you a discount for certain anti-theft devices. Check with your company or agent for details.
NICB recommends that drivers follow our four “layers of protection” to guard against vehicle theft.