Skip to main content
News
Aug. 16, 2023

How to prevent vehicle theft

Test your knowledge, or refresh your memory on important road safety information with this true or false quiz.

With auto thefts on the rise, we compiled a list of tips to prevent your car from being stolen.

As a physician, you work hard to provide the best care for your patients, and your vehicle is essential to getting you to and from work. The loss of a vehicle can be financially overwhelming, but, fortunately, there are some steps you can take to help prevent your car from being stolen.

Lock your doors and roll up your windows

Don’t make your vehicle an easy target. No matter how safe your neighbourhood may be, the risk is still there. Ensure you always lock your doors and keep your windows closed when you are not in the vehicle.

Don’t leave your keys or car running unattended

You may think that you are only leaving your car for a moment, but thieves are quick. Leaving your keys in the ignition makes you an easy target. Avoid leaving spare car keys in the glovebox as thieves often check it for valuables.

Take advantage of additional security features

Car alarms are good, but thieves know how to work their way around them. Additional security features lower your risk of having your car stolen. Consider using a steering wheel lock, as it makes it impossible to drive a car away. Lug nuts are inexpensive and make it challenging to remove and steal tires and rims.

Hide your valuables

Not every thief is looking to steal your car,; rather, they want what’s inside it. If you have any valuables in your car, make sure you place them in the trunk. You may even want to invest in a trunk cover if your window exposes your items. If you have a dash cam, you should always remove it before exiting the vehicle. Avoid leaving loose change in visible areas. Things you may not consider valuable, such as sunglasses or gloves, may be worthwhile for a thief.

Park in a safe area

Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage. If you must park on the street, try to park in a well-lit area with foot traffic. When parking in an unfamiliar neighbourhood, it may be best to park in a populated parking lot where there is an attendant or security cameras.

Keep your keys away from doors and windows

Keeping your car keys near your front door may be convenient, but it could help thieves steal your car. Vehicles that use a key fob-activated starter are vulnerable to having its signal emulated by sophisticated car thieves.

Get the right insurance coverage

Review your auto insurance policy to ensure you have the right coverage. For example, a reimbursement of the replacement vehicle costs can help you get through the time it takes to process your claim. 

Remember that your automobile insurance policy doesn’t cover items that you are carrying, such as portable computers, mobile phones, purses, equipment (e.g., GPS) or sports equipment. To protect these items at all times, be sure to have a complete home insurance policy.

Need to update your auto insurance policy? Now is the perfect time with OMA Insurance.