You can prevent theft of your car by being car smart

Vehicle theft is a crime that keeps you paying. Victims may also face higher insurance premiums, replacement of valuables, lost time, increased police costs, and possible identity theft.

LoJack Corporation is the company that created the stolen vehicle recovery marketplace two decades ago. They have teamed up to create an education program to educate the public on the dangers of vehicle theft. You might be wrong to believe vehicle theft is impossible. A car, SUV, or light-truck is stolen in America every 25.5 seconds.

LoJack and National Insurance Crime Bureau commissioned a joint survey that found bad habits are easy targets for professional thieves today. According to the survey:

* 33 percent of people have left their car running to warm it up or to run a quick errand

* 47 percent of people don’t always park in well-lit areas

* 40 percent of people don’t hide valuables

* 48 percent of people have left mail, and 26 percent have left a wallet or purse in their vehicle, putting them at risk of identity theft.

What can motorists do in order to avoid becoming victims? A lot of common-sense thinking can help. Never leave a spare car key unattended. Lock all doors and windows. You should park in a well lit area. You should not leave valuables in your car. Also, you should never leave your vehicle unattended.

A theft-deterrent device can be added to your protection. You can use a car alarm, a visible device like a steering wheel lock, or window etching to protect your vehicle.

A vehicle immobilizer is an additional layer of protection. A smart key or fuel cutoff device can be installed to make it difficult for thieves to take your vehicle.

The last layer is to use stolen vehicle recovery systems. Professional thieves are able to outsmart all deterrents. These systems allow authorities to track down your vehicle and recover it if it is stolen.

LoJack Knowledge Centre offers a free booklet detailing the steps owners can take in order to prevent their vehicle being stolen. www.lojack.com/theftfacts, or the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s Web site at www.nicb.orgClick here “Theft and Fraud Awareness.”