Motorists urged to wise-up to theft

Posted :09-06-2005

Motorists have been urged to ensure they take measures to secure their vehicles fully, guarding against the threat of theft.

Approximately 250,000 cars were stolen in the UK in 2004, accounting for one in 20 car insurance claims, figures from Llyoyds TSB Insurance have found.

Two fifths of these thefts occurred on the road outside the owner's house, underlining the importance of taking precaution at all times, even if just away from their vehicle for a matter of minutes.

Car crime is falling, yet motorists have been warned not to take risks with car security.

This is highlighted by Phil Loney of Lloyds TSB Insurance, who said: "Car thieves are no different to any other criminal - they'll strike when they know we're not paying attention.

"Drivers tend to be on their guard when they're out on the town, but they still seem to believe that their streets and driveways are a safe-haven from theft.

"It's not too hard to imagine how, at the end of a long day at work, we forget to lock our cars, wind up the windows or remove our valuables, but it can mean we'll make easy prey for car thieves."

Consumers are also reminded that their car insurance can be invalidated if crimes occur when due care and precaution has not been taken.

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