Floridians, Protect your Cars from Theft - Local Accident Attorney Explains Ways

In the movies, it's always sports cars that are stolen.  Real life is a bit less glamorous.  According to the FBI's 2008 Uniform Crime Rate Report, more than 72% of all motor vehicles reported stolen are plain, old passenger cars (see the top 10 list below).

As a local Gainesville auto accident attorney Florida, I'd like to highlight some important theft statistics, essential to protect Florida's motorists:

• Floridians are at risk. Florida ranks second nationwide for auto theft, trailing California and ahead of Texas.
• Theft "heats up" in the summer. July and August are peak months for car theft.
• Keep your guard up, even at home. Cars, or sometimes just their parts, may be stolen from driveways, backyards, garages, or even familiar parking lots.
• Theft may be preventable. Statistics show that 40 to 50% of vehicle thefts are based on driver error-like leaving the doors unlocked, widows rolled down, or keys in the ignition.
• Use visual deterrents. Install a wheel, steering wheel, or brake lock.
• Use common sense. Park in well-lit area, or preferably a parking garage. Don't leave valuables in site.
• Easy to steal, only sometimes recovered. While a car is stolen every 33 seconds in the U.S., only 57% of stolen cars are recovered.
• The top ten cars stolen in the U.S. include(NHTSA 2008):
• § Chrysler Sebring;
• § Chrysler PT Cruiser;
• § Chrysler 300;
• § Chrysler Pacifica;
• § Dodge Magnum;
• § Dodge Charger;
• § Hyundai Azera;
• § Hyundai Sonata;
• § Mitsubishi Galant; and
• § Pontiac Grand Prix.

For more information:

What is the difference between collision and comprehensive auto insurance?

National Safety Commission - Not Gone in 33 seconds - vehicle theft

NHTSA Vehicle Safety and Theft Prevention