Auto Theft Costly For Canadians

Stolen In 30 Seconds Without a Key!

The Insurance Bureau of Canada recently released auto theft statistics for Canada and the cost of these thefts is quite staggering. In Canada 108,172 vehicles were stolen in 2009 which cost insurers $419,000,000 which does not include the cost of police response, court time etc. associated with the theft.

According to the IBC a professional thief can steal a car in about 30 seconds, even without using a key. Eight out of ten vehicles stolen in Canada do not have an approved electronic immobilizer, which prevents thieves from starting a vehicle without a key.

Some tips to avoid having your vehicle stolen:

• Roll up car windows, lock the doors and pocket the key.
• Keep the vehicle registration certificate and proof of insurance in a purse or wallet at all times – not in the glovebox.
• Never leave valuable objects or packages in full view. Put them in the trunk.
• Never leave a vehicle running unattended when getting a coffee or when the vehicle is warming up on the driveway. Approximately 20% of stolen cars have keys in them.
• Always park in a well-lit and busy area.
• At home, park in a garage if available and lock both the garage and car doors.

You are reminded that the RCMP in Nanaimo are offering free steering wheel locks to owners of pre - 2001 Honda Civics, Dodge Caravans and Plymouth Voyagers. For more information click here.