As a key mode of transportation, no one wants their car to be stolen. Unfortunately, vehicle theft is still a prevalent issue. In fact, every year the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), releases a top 10 stolen vehicles list, highlighting which vehicles were targeted that year.

That’s why, whether you’re thinking about buying a new vehicle or keeping your current one, you may want to consider what steps you can take to prevent theft, and what you can do to ensure your vehicle is easily recovered should it be stolen.

Key vehicle theft prevention tips:

  1. Don’t leave your vehicle unattended while it’s running.
  2. Don’t give thieves a reason to steal your vehicle by leaving valuables or spare change in your cup holder. If you must leave valuables in your vehicle, put them in the trunk or glove compartment.
  3. Don’t leave your keys in the ignition or your car’s key fob behind when parked.
  4. Don’t leave spare keys in the glove-box or another compartment. It might be convenient, but it’s not worth the inconvenience of having your vehicle stolen.
  5. Put on a steering wheel lock. Time is a factor for thieves; if it’s going to take them a little longer to steal your vehicle, it may deter them.
  6. Park your vehicle in a garage.
  7. Park in well-lit places. If possible, try to park in a secured lot with an attendant or security cameras.
  8. Roll up the windows and make sure all doors are locked.
  9. Arm your vehicle with a security system or buy a vehicle with a security system.
  10. Make it harder for thieves to tow away your vehicle by using your emergency brake and turning your wheels to the side.
  11. Install outdoor security cameras if you park outside.
  12. Install an ignition kill switch if your vehicle doesn’t have a mandatory immobilizer.
  13. Use a brake lock.
  14. Check to see if your vehicle is one often targeted by thieves and if so, take extra steps to protect it.

Ways you can help with vehicle theft recovery:

If  your vehicle ever does get stolen the recovery process may be made easier if you’ve taken some key preventative steps:

  1. Have your vehicle identification number (VIN) etched onto your windows. It will be more work for a thief to sell car parts and remove etchings.
  2. Use GPS technology to track your vehicle if it does get stolen.
  3. Leave a few business cards in your vehicle. It will help police identify who the vehicle belongs to or verify that you’re the owner.

What to do after a vehicle theft:

  1. Report the theft to the police. The sooner you report the theft, the higher the odds of it being recovered. They’ll ask you for details like:
  • The year, make, colour and model of your vehicle
  • License number
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Serial numbers of special equipment, if applicable
  • Special markings, like previous damage, dents, and scratches
  1. Take note of the police file number. When you make a claim, your insurer will ask for it.
  2. Report your claim.
  3. Arrange for alternative transportation.
  4. Wait for an adjuster to get in touch with you.
  5. Pay the deductible. Insurance covers the remaining cost of repairs.

To further ensure your car is protected, make sure your business vehicle is covered with a commercial auto insurance policy. Get a quote today or learn more about why you may need commercial auto insurance.

This blog is provided for information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and will not be responsible for any loss arising out of reliance on the information.