Why Is Vehicle Theft a Problem for the Environment? Definition, Causes, and How to Prevent It

What is Vehicle Theft?

Vehicle theft is the illegal taking or use of someone else’s vehicle without their permission. It includes the theft of cars, motorcycles, trucks, boats and other motor vehicles. Vehicle theft affects not only the owner of the vehicle, but also the insurance companies, car manufacturers, and law enforcement agencies.

Vehicle theft is a multi-billion-dollar crime that can cause financial losses, damage to property, and threats to public safety and security. It is often linked to other organized crime activities such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, and people smuggling. Furthermore, the illicit market in spare parts has become a lucrative source of income for criminal organizations. With the use of the Internet, the resale of these items has dramatically increased, becoming a major concern for law enforcement, car manufacturers, and public health organizations.

What are the Causes of Vehicle Theft?

1. Thieves Target Valuable Vehicles

Thieves commonly target passenger cars for theft, as they make up more than 74% of all stolen motor vehicles. Vehicles with lower values tend to be targeted more than more expensive vehicles, as the penalties for motor vehicle theft are less severe for lower value vehicles and the demand for parts from older vehicles is greater because they have a higher occurrence of malfunction requiring replacement parts. Video surveillance and security systems can help deter potential thieves, as can be leaving no valuables in the vehicle that can be seen from the outside. Thieves may also target car parts such as batteries, wheels, tailgates, and other easily removable parts that may not have identifying numbers to associate them with a particular vehicle.

2. Thieves Easily Make Money Through Theft

Thieves make money from vehicle theft in multiple ways. They may steal the entire vehicle to use for transportation or profit, or they may target certain parts that they can easily sell. Common parts that are stolen include car batteries, wheels, and tailgates, as well as electronics such as radios, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, and laptops. Not only can these items be sold for money, but they can also be used to upgrade other stolen vehicles. In addition, the thieves may benefit from the secondary offenses that are often associated with motor vehicle theft, such as drug crimes, property crimes, and fraudulent activity. All of these activities can add up to a substantial amount of money for the thieves.

3. Thieves Want to Get Their Hands on High-End Parts

Thieves steal high-end parts to cause vehicle theft for a number of reasons. Firstly, these parts are more valuable and can be sold for a higher price on the black market. Additionally, organized criminal groups often view vehicle theft as a low-risk way to generate profits. Stolen vehicles can be used to finance and carry out other criminal activities, and the illicit market in spare parts is a lucrative source of income for criminal organizations. Finally, the rise of the internet has made it easier for criminals to resell stolen parts, putting drivers in danger due to the substandard nature of these parts. By stealing high-end parts from vehicles, thieves are able to maximize their profits and minimize their risk of getting caught.

4. Thieves Want to Steal High-Quality Vehicles

Thieves tend to target vehicles that are more likely to turn a profit, such as high-quality vehicles. Luxury vehicles are more appealing to thieves due to their higher resale value, making them more attractive targets. Additionally, high-end vehicles have more advanced technology and anti-theft features, which can be difficult to bypass and may require more sophisticated methods of theft. Furthermore, luxury vehicles are typically more expensive to replace, which can lead to a higher payout for the thief. Ultimately, thieves want to steal high-quality vehicles because it presents them with the greatest opportunity for profit.

5. Thieves Want to Steal Vehicles for Joyriding

The motive for vehicle theft is often linked to other organized crime operations, such as joyriding, transport, or for profit. Theft of motor vehicles is a lucrative business, with thieves targeting less expensive vehicles and parts for resale. Low-valued cars are easier to steal due to less sophisticated security systems and lower penalties for the crime. The most sought after vehicle parts include doors, engines, transmissions, air bags, radios, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, laptops, and purses. In addition to the financial implications, theft of vehicles also has a negative impact on the reputation of car manufacturers and public safety. To combat vehicle crime, it is important to take common-sense precautions when parking, such as removing the key, locking all windows and doors, and avoiding leaving valuables in the car.

6. Thieves Want to Steal Vehicles to Sell Them

People steal vehicles to sell them for a variety of reasons. For organized criminal groups, it is a low-risk way to make profits since stolen vehicles can be trafficked in order to finance and carry out other criminal activities. Additionally, the illegal market in spare parts is another lucrative source of income for criminal organizations, and stolen vehicles are often dismantled for their parts. Moreover, thieves target less expensive motor vehicles as they have less sophisticated crime prevention equipment and the penalties for vehicle theft are less severe for lower value vehicles. Ultimately, vehicle theft is a multi-billion-dollar crime and, sadly, a threat to public safety.

7. Thieves Will Steal Vehicles to Use Them for Crime

Thieves will steal vehicles to use them for crime due to the fact that it is a low-risk activity for them to make a profit. Stolen vehicles can be easily trafficked and sold to finance other criminal activities such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, and people smuggling. Additionally, the illicit market in stolen vehicle parts is incredibly lucrative and can be used for a variety of practical purposes. The use of the Internet has contributed to a rise in the sale of illicit vehicle components, making it easier for criminals to get their hands on stolen vehicles and parts. This has serious implications for the economy, public safety, and the reputation of car manufacturers. The cost of motor vehicle theft in the US in 2020 was over $7 billion, and the thieves are likely to choose the easiest target in order to make quick profits. Therefore, it is essential that car owners take preventative measures to secure their vehicles and discourage thieves from stealing them.

8. Thieves Want to Steal Vehicles to Sell Them for Parts

Thieves often target less expensive vehicles due to the fact that they have less sophisticated crime prevention equipment, and the penalties for motor vehicle theft are less severe. Additionally, these vehicles often have a higher occurrence of malfunction requiring replacement parts and they depreciate in value quickly, making them a more cost-effective option than newer vehicles. By stealing and selling the parts, thieves are able to make a significant profit while incurring minimal risk. Furthermore, they are able to provide spare parts to buyers at a fraction of the cost, making it a lucrative option for criminals. Another reason is that stolen vehicles can be used to finance and carry out other criminal activities, ranging from drug trafficking, arms dealing, people smuggling and international terrorism. Finally, the illicit market in spare parts is a lucrative source of income for criminal organizations and offers them many practical uses.

9. Thieves Want to Steal Vehicles to Make Fentanyl

Vehicle theft is a major problem that impacts individuals, businesses, the economy and public safety worldwide. It is often a low-risk way for criminal organizations to make a profit and can be linked to other organized criminal activities such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, and people smuggling. One of the primary causes of vehicle theft is the use of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is highly addictive and can be grown in a lab. Fentanyl has become a lucrative business for organized crime groups, as it is relatively inexpensive to make and can be sold for a high profit. Thus, these groups often turn to vehicle theft as a means of obtaining the money needed to buy the chemicals and equipment needed to manufacture fentanyl. Unfortunately, this type of theft is on the rise and can cause immense damage to victims, businesses, and the economy.

10. Thieves Will Steal Vehicles to Profit from Their Trade

One of the primary causes of vehicle theft for profit is the low risk associated with the acquisition, shipment, and trade of stolen vehicles. Stolen vehicles can be trafficked in order to finance and carry out other criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, people smuggling, and international terrorism. Additionally, the highly lucrative market in illicit spare parts provides criminals with a steady stream of income and many practical uses. The use of the internet has further facilitated the resale of illicit parts, making this an issue of major concern.

Other factors that may lead to vehicle theft include the lack of sophisticated crime prevention equipment in lower-valued cars and the fact that vehicles depreciate in value quickly. Furthermore, penalties for vehicle theft are typically less severe for vehicles with a lower value, which may provide further incentive for criminals to target these vehicles.

What are the Environmental Consequences of Vehicle Theft?

1. Vehicle theft releases harmful gases into the environment, damaging the climate and the ozone layer.

Vehicle theft has a significant impact on the environment. When a stolen vehicle is not recovered, it can be disassembled and sold for parts, creating a large amount of hazardous waste. The toxins released from burning motor oil and antifreeze are damaging to the environment, as well as the public’s health. Additionally, stolen vehicles are often sold as scrap metal, which requires a lot of energy to process, resulting in air and water pollution. Furthermore, parts taken from stolen vehicles often have a lower safety standard than those purchased from a manufacturer, increasing the possibility of an accident and further environmental damage. Finally, the financial cost of vehicle theft is very high, resulting in a strain on the economy and additional environmental costs.

2. Car thieves often strip cars of parts, which can cause more waste to be produced.

Vehicle theft has a significant impact on the environment, both directly and indirectly. Stolen vehicles and parts often end up in junkyards, where they are left to sit and release toxins into the air, soil, and water. This pollution can damage both the environment and human health. In addition, the manufacturing of replacement parts and vehicles creates an added strain on the environment. Lastly, vehicle theft often requires the use of large amounts of fuel, which adds to the problem of global warming.

3. There are also consequences for the local environment, as car thieves often dump stolen cars in neighborhoods.

The environmental consequences of vehicle theft are far-reaching and include financial loss for car owners, insurance companies, and car manufacturers, as well as an increase in organized crime activity. Stolen vehicles are frequently trafficked to finance and carry out other criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, people smuggling, and international terrorism. The illicit market in spare parts is also a lucrative source of income for criminal organizations, yet it puts drivers in danger due to the substandard parts used. Furthermore, the rise of online marketplaces has contributed to a dramatic increase in the resale of illicit vehicle components, thus making this an issue of concern for law enforcement, car manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and public health organizations across the world.

4. Vehicle theft can also increase the risk of environmental pollution, as thieves sometimes try to dispose of stolen cars by dumping them or burning them.

Vehicle theft increases the risk of environmental pollution in several ways. Firstly, when a vehicle is stolen, it is often dismantled and sold off in parts, which adds to the waste generated by the automotive industry. Secondly, the illicit market in spare parts is a lucrative source of income for criminal organizations and often leads to the sale of unsafe and low-quality parts, which can have further implications for the environment. Thirdly, stolen vehicles are frequently trafficked to finance and carry out other criminal activities such as drug trafficking, arms dealing and people smuggling, which poses a serious threat to the environment. Finally, the use of the Internet to resell illicit vehicle components has contributed to a dramatic increase in the resale of stolen and environmentally unsafe parts. All of these factors contribute to environmental pollution and must be addressed in order to reduce the risk.

5. Finally, vehicle theft can have an effect on the quality of life in a neighborhood, leading to more crime and lower property values.

Vehicle theft affects the quality of life in a neighborhood in many ways. First, it can cause significant economic harm to individuals or families as the stolen vehicle is an asset that often cannot be replaced by insurance. Second, it can lead to increased insurance premiums for all residents, even if their vehicle has not been stolen. Third, it can lead to increased fear, anxiety, and a feeling of insecurity among residents in a neighborhood, as criminals may target their car or use the stolen vehicle to commit other crimes. Fourth, it can lead to an overall decline in the quality and safety of the neighborhood, with an increase in criminal activity. Finally, it can create distrust between members of the community, with individuals feeling less safe and less likely to report suspicious activity.

How to Prevent Vehicle Theft

1. Lock the car

Locking a car is an effective way to prevent vehicle theft. When a car is locked, it requires the thief to spend more time trying to break in, making it more difficult to steal the car. Additionally, a steering wheel or brake pedal lock can be used to add an extra layer of protection, making it even more difficult for a thief to steal the vehicle. Having a visible or audible security system can further discourage a thief from attempting to steal the car. Finally, having an immobilizing device such as a starter, ignition or fuel disabler can make it virtually impossible for a thief to start the car and drive away. All of these measures can help deter a thief from targeting your vehicle.

2. Install an alarm system

Installing an alarm system can help prevent vehicle theft by providing an audible warning when someone attempts to break into or start a vehicle. This audible warning can draw attention to the vehicle and will likely cause the thief to abandon their efforts. The alarm system can also be connected to an immobilizing device, such as a starter, ignition, or fuel disabler, which will prevent the thief from being able to start the vehicle. In addition, some alarm systems may be connected to a GPS tracking device, giving the authorities a way to track the vehicle and potentially catch the thief in the act.

3. Use a steering-wheel lock

Using a steering wheel lock is a great way to help prevent vehicle theft. By adding an additional layer of protection to your vehicle, it makes it more difficult and less appealing for criminals to steal your vehicle. A steering wheel lock also makes it much harder for a thief to drive away in a car as it requires them to break the lock first. This extra step can often be enough to deter a thief from even attempting to steal your vehicle as it will take extra time and effort, and may attract unwanted attention. Additionally, a steering wheel lock also serves as a visual deterrent as it makes it obvious to potential thieves that your car is protected.

4. Install a tracking device on the car

Installing a GPS tracking device on a vehicle can be an effective way to deter theft and help law enforcement recover a stolen vehicle. A GPS tracking device acts as an added layer of security, sending out a signal that can be used to track the vehicle’s whereabouts. This device can also alert authorities if the vehicle is being moved without permission. Additionally, GPS tracking can help law enforcement quickly locate and recover a stolen vehicle, resulting in a greater chance of apprehending the thief and returning the vehicle to its rightful owner.

5. Use a vehicle theft prevention month

The use of a Vehicle Theft Prevention Month can help prevent vehicle theft by providing valuable information on how to protect vehicles from theft. This includes providing tips on how to lock and secure vehicles, activating security systems, and parking in well-lit areas. These informative resources help to raise awareness of the prevalence of vehicle theft, while also providing steps that drivers can take to reduce the chances of their vehicle being stolen. Additionally, NHTSA’s Vehicle Theft Rates Search offers an easy way for drivers to search for vehicle theft rates by state. This helps drivers to be more informed about the areas that have higher theft rates, so they can make more informed decisions about where to park. The campaign also helps to highlight the economic impact of vehicle theft, which can be significant. By raising awareness of the issue and providing resources, Vehicle Theft Prevention Month can help to reduce the overall rate of vehicle theft.

6. Install an immobilizer on the car

Installing an immobilizer on a car can help prevent vehicle theft by making it harder for thieves to start the vehicle. An immobilizer is an electronic device that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct code is entered or the correct key fob is used. This additional layer of protection can deter thieves from targeting a vehicle and make them look for an easier target. In Germany, insurance companies incentivized the installation of immobilizers by offering policyholders discounted rates and only fully reimbursing victims of car theft if their cars had the technology. European governments also gave this effort a boost by making the immobilizer mandatory in all vehicles sold within their borders. As a result of the success of this technology in Europe, car companies began making immobilizers more and more standard on vehicles sold in the United States. This has led to a decrease in the number of vehicle thefts in the United States.

7. Use a parking space with protection

The benefits of using a parking space with protection are numerous. With protection, you can protect your vehicle from theft and vandalism. It is an additional deterrent to thieves, who may find an easier target elsewhere. Protection also offers added security by allowing you to activate a security system, use a visible or audible device that alerts thieves a vehicle is protected at all times, and install an immobilizing device to make it harder for a thief to start the vehicle. Additionally, you can lock your vehicle and remove any items of value from inside. This includes protecting items such as car batteries, wheels, and tailgates, as well as medications, bags, purses, backpacks, electronics, and weapons that should never be left in a vehicle. A parking space with protection is also beneficial as it allows you to monitor your vehicle when it is parked.

8. Install a car lock

Installing a car lock is an effective way to deter vehicle theft. By adding this additional layer of protection, it makes potential thieves less likely to target your vehicle, as it adds an extra step that must be taken in order for the vehicle to be stolen. Not only does this make it more difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle, it also serves as a visible reminder that the vehicle is protected. Additionally, using a car lock also prevents thieves from being able to quickly enter and start the vehicle, as they must first unlock the car before they can access the ignition. This adds valuable time, allowing individuals to spot the attempted theft and call the authorities. In conclusion, car locks are a useful tool for preventing vehicle theft, as they can deter potential thieves, slow them down, and serve as a visible reminder that the vehicle is protected.

9. Lock down the belongings in the car

1) Lock your vehicle – The first step in auto theft prevention is to always lock your car doors and windows when exiting the vehicle.

2) Activate security systems – You can use a visible or audible device that shows thieves your vehicle is protected at all times.

3) Use a steering wheel or brake pedal lock – This additional layer of protection can make a difference between a thief choosing your vehicle or finding an easier target.

4) Protect your remote starters, key fobs, and keys – These items should never be left in a vehicle.

5) Never leave a vehicle running – A car can be stolen in seconds, so it is important to always turn off the engine.

6) Install an immobilizing device – Such as starter, ignition, or fuel disabler – Every second you add to a thief trying to start your car will help.

7) Equip your vehicle with a GPS tracking device – Help the authorities help you by giving them a way to track your vehicle. *Please do not attempt to track your own vehicle as vehicle thieves are dangerous.

8) Do not leave your vehicle title or important documents in the vehicle – Thieves may attempt to steal your identity and fraudulently assume ownership of your vehicle. #StopTheFraud

9) Remove or conceal valuable items from your vehicle – Medication, bags, purses, backpacks, and electronics should all be removed from your vehicle or concealed out of sight.

10) Weapons should never be left in your vehicle – Always remove weapons from your vehicle when it is unoccupied.

10. Follow the Neighborhood Watch Programs

Neighborhood watch programs can help prevent vehicle theft by providing citizens with the information they need to protect their vehicles. Through these programs, residents can be made aware of the methods used by thieves and the times and locations where thefts are most likely to occur. They can also be informed of steps that they can take to protect their vehicles, such as parking in well-lit areas, using secure locks and immobilizers, and removing valuables from the vehicle. Additionally, such programs can help to create a sense of community and shared responsibility amongst residents, which can aid in deterring potential criminals. Finally, neighborhood watch programs can also create an opportunity for residents to become involved in their local police force and help law enforcement officers to better understand their community and the types of crimes occurring within it.

FAQs

What is vehicle theft and how is it a problem for the environment?

Vehicle theft is the illegal stealing of a motor vehicle or the parts of a motor vehicle. It is a significant problem for the environment, as the theft of vehicles and their parts has a significant financial impact on businesses, the economy, and public safety. Vehicle theft is usually linked to organized crime, which uses stolen vehicles as a source of income and to finance other criminal activities. The illicit trade in spare parts is a lucrative source of income for criminal groups, as it not only has a financial impact on the industry, but it also increases the risk of drivers being exposed to unsafe parts that do not meet safety standards. The use of the Internet has also contributed to the dramatic rise in the resale of illicit vehicle components, making vehicle theft an important issue for law enforcement and public health organizations alike.

What are some of the causes of vehicle theft?

Vehicle theft is a serious problem in the United States, with over 750,000 vehicles stolen in 2020 alone. The root causes of vehicle theft can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as driver negligence, high-value parts and items, and the availability of technology that can be used for stealing vehicles.

Driver negligence is the leading cause of vehicle theft, with over half of all thefts occurring due to a lack of security measures taken by the driver. This can include leaving the keys in the vehicle, or failing to close and lock all windows and doors when the vehicle is parked.

Valuable parts and items are also a major cause of vehicle theft. Common items stolen from vehicles include radios, wheel covers, airbags, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, laptops, and purses. As these items can be easily sold for a profit, they are an attractive target for thieves.

The availability of technology for stealing vehicles is another cause of vehicle theft. Keyless entry fobs, tracking devices, immobilizing devices, and other vehicle technologies can be used to facilitate auto theft. Thieves can use wireless transmitters to intercept keyless fob signals, or bypass the ignition and hot-wire the vehicle.

Therefore, it is important for drivers to take steps to protect their vehicles from theft, such as not leaving a keyless entry fob in the vehicle, installing an immobilizing device, and installing a tracking device. By following these security measures, drivers can help to reduce the risk of vehicle theft.

What are some ways to prevent vehicle theft?

Step 1: Lock your vehicle – It is simple, effective and is the first step in auto theft prevention.

Step 2: Activate security systems – It’s one more deterrent at your disposal.

Step 3: Use a visible or audible device that shows thieves a vehicle is protected at all times.

Step 4: Equip your vehicle with a GPS tracking device – help the authorities help you by giving them a way to track your vehicle.

Step 5: Install an immobilizing device such as starter, ignition or fuel disabler – every second you add to a thief trying to start your car will help.

Step 6: Do not leave your vehicle title or important documents in the vehicle – thieves may attempt to steal your identity and fraudulently assume ownership of your vehicle.

Step 7: Remove items such as medication, bags, purses, backpacks, or electronics when leaving the vehicle.

Step 8: Never leave a vehicle running – a car can be stolen in seconds.

Step 9: Weapons should never be stored in a vehicle and should always be removed when the vehicle is unoccupied.

What is an immobilizer and how does it help to prevent vehicle theft?

An immobilizer is an anti-theft device that prevents unauthorized access to a vehicle by disabling the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine. It works by incorporating computer chips in the ignition keys so that the vehicle will only start when the correct key is inserted. This makes it difficult to bypass the ignition system and hot-wire the car, deterring potential thieves. Immobilizers were first introduced in Europe in the 1990s by the German insurer Allianz, who made it a requirement to get full reimbursement for stolen cars. In 1995, Siemens developed an immobilizer system that incorporated an encrypted transponder with a key fob, allowing drivers to remotely unlock their vehicles with the push of a button. This technology was adopted by car manufacturers and eventually mandated by the European Union in 1998. In the United States, car companies began making immobilizers more standard on vehicles sold here due to the success of this tech and the market dynamics it created in Europe. Immobilizers have helped to reduce car theft significantly, and today, vehicles with immobilizers are much less likely to be stolen.

What is the data set used to analyze vehicle theft?

The data set used to analyze vehicle theft is geo-referenced auto theft data from 2003 and 2013. This data is analyzed to determine crime concentrations at the street segment level, kernel density estimation, and a nonparametric spatial point pattern test that can identify the similarity in spatial point patterns. This data set is used to investigate the changes in the spatial patterns of auto theft in Vancouver, British Columbia during a time of a significant crime drop.

How do catalytic converters contribute to vehicle theft?

Catalytic converters are an attractive target for thieves due to the three valuable metals they contain, including platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Thieves can easily recognize catalytic converters due to their location underneath vehicles, and can quickly steal them since they are not secured. The increase in catalytic converter thefts is a big problem as theft rates have increased over 1,000% in the US in the past year. The financial incentive to steal catalytic converters makes them a target for thieves looking for quick money. As a result, the consumer is left with a costly repair and the time and hassle of replacing the stolen converter.

What are some of the factors that contribute to vehicle theft in neighborhoods?

The factors that contribute to vehicle theft in neighborhoods include: the motive of the thief (whether it is for joyriding, transportation, or profit); the presence of alarms on vehicles; any other crimes or events taking place simultaneously with the theft (e.g., vandalism, other thefts); how entry is gained into the vehicle (through unlocked doors, open windows, or forced entry); what kind of offenders are involved (transients, drug addicts, juveniles); where stolen property is recovered (chop shops, pawn shops, other resale shops, offender’s homes); how stolen property is disposed of (e.g., kept for own use, sold, or traded for other valuables); whether certain vehicle owners are repeatedly victimized; and what behaviors of victims contribute to the thefts (such as leaving keys or valuables plainly visible).

What technologies are used to deter vehicle theft?

Technologies used to deter vehicle theft include audible and visible devices such as horn alarms, steering wheel locks, theft-deterrent decals, flashing lights, and window etchings; immobilizing-type devices which prevent thieves from bypassing a vehicle’s ignition system and hot-wiring it; and vehicle recovery systems that use electronic transmission technology to reveal the location of stolen vehicles. In addition, it’s important to take basic steps such as locking your vehicle, activating security systems, and protecting remote starters, key fobs, and keys. Installing an immobilizing device such as starter, ignition, or fuel disabler, equipping your vehicle with a GPS tracking device, and not leaving your vehicle title or important documents in the vehicle can also help to deter vehicle theft.

How does the theft of gasoline cars contribute to vehicle theft?

The theft of gasoline cars can contribute to vehicle theft in a variety of ways. First, stolen gasoline cars can be used to facilitate other crimes, such as drug trafficking, arms dealing, people smuggling, and international terrorism. Second, the stolen vehicles may be sold for scrap parts or for use in illegal activities. Finally, the illicit market for spare parts created by vehicle theft can be a lucrative source of income for criminal organizations, allowing them to finance and carry out other criminal activities. Vehicle theft also has a negative economic impact, as insurers must cover the losses of those who have had their cars stolen, and car manufacturers must deal with the resulting damage to their reputation.

How can auto theft prevention outreach programs help to reduce vehicle theft?

Auto theft prevention outreach programs can help to reduce vehicle theft by educating consumers on the potential for motor vehicle theft, identifying high-theft areas, and providing information about precautionary measures that can be taken to deter vehicle theft. Through the NHTSA’s annual Vehicle Theft Prevention Month campaign, consumers are made aware of the economic impact of vehicle theft and the steps they can take to protect their vehicles from theft. These steps can include investing in immobilizing devices, tracking devices, and deterrents such as steering wheel or brake pedal locks. They should also make sure to park in well-lit areas or in the garage, and never leave their vehicle running or unattended. Additionally, consumers should be sure to never leave identifying documents in their vehicle and report any theft to the police. By following these tips, consumers can help to reduce the prevalence of vehicle theft in their area.