DETROIT – Auto thefts are on the rise, and drivers are being reminded to lock their vehicles to lessen the chance of being a victim of auto theft.
According to the Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority, there were 20,477 reported stolen vehicles in Michigan last year. Current data suggests that 2017 numbers could exceed that amount.
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Also, according to the Michigan State Police, a vehicle is stolen every 44 seconds in the U.S. Nearly half of those thefts involve an unlocked vehicle or keys left in an ignition.
Residents are urged to be aware of suspicious vehicles in their neighborhood. If something appears out of place, a report should be made to the police.
If purchasing or selling a vehicle online, be sure to make the transaction at a police station or Secretary of State's Office during business hours. Don't make the sale in a private place or at your home.
Also, if anything on a vehicle's title looks odd, postpone the sale until the title's legitimacy can be confirmed.
Below are some additional tips for preventing auto theft.
- Close windows when your vehicle is parked.
- Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle, especially where they can be seen.
- Don't leave your vehicle running unattended.
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Keep your vehicle in a garage, if possible.
- Keep exterior house lights on at night.
- Install a car alarm or use a theft deterrent device, such as a steering wheel lock or gear shift column lock.
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