Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, it seems that we have all learned to be a little more careful than usual. We are washing our hands, maintaining our distance from each other, and trying to keep our families healthy. But there may be a threat we haven’t considered: vehicle theft and burglary.
There has been a considerable spike in the number of vehicle larcenies since the start of the coronavirus crisis, even close to home in cities like Winter Haven. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), July is Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, so there is no better time to brush up on your vehicle safety methods.
Why Have Car Thefts Increased?
As businesses have closed down to prevent the spread of COVID-19, many have reduced the amount of time they spend on the road each day. More people are working from home than ever before. Less time is being spent driving to restaurants, stores, and entertainment venues.
Because people are not driving as often, they may leave their vehicles unattended for longer amounts of time than usual. Vehicles may be parked out of view and in unsafe areas where owners cannot keep an eye on them. This makes them prime targets for burglars that can quickly break windows and grab valuables. If you leave your vehicle unlocked or leave your keys inside, the chances of a thief stealing it are even higher.
Vehicle burglary is a low-risk crime, especially if a vehicle is not kept in a safe place. With many out of work and kids out of school, there are more people who may be inclined to steal from you. As the pandemic continues to keep us off the roads and out of work, we may keep seeing an increase in thefts.
Vehicle Theft Prevention Tips
There are many simple actions you can take today that can reduce the risk of vehicle theft and burglary. No matter where you live, you should take these vehicle theft prevention precautions recommended by the NHTSA.
- Lock your doors and close your windows each time you exit your vehicle.
- Keep your vehicle keys on you, not inside or around the vehicle.
- Park your vehicle in a well-lit area. If thieves are less concealed at night, they will be less likely to steal from your vehicle.
- Do not leave valuable items that a thief would want to steal in your vehicle. If you absolutely must leave something, place it in a locked trunk so that it is hidden and safe.
- Equip your vehicle with anti-theft protection, such as car alarms or a recovery system.
Even if you are not driving as often, we recommend checking on your vehicle regularly. Staying aware and careful will go a long way to keep your vehicle safe! Do you have any tips of your own? We’d love to hear about how you keep your vehicle safe in the comments.
Brooks Law Group is devoted to your safety and well-being. As we navigate this pandemic together, remember that we are always here to serve you. You can always contact us if you are in need of legal assistance.
