A quarter of UK drivers face car theft or vandalism – here’s how to not be one of them

It’s a moment no driver wants to experience: walking out to your car, you spot scratches, dents, or, worst of all – find it missing. In fact, new RAC research shows that 26% of UK drivers have fallen victim to vehicle crime in the past 12 months, with urban areas bearing the brunt.

But what types of crimes have people experienced, and what can you do to keep your car safe? Read on to find out.

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Here are some incidents that drivers have reported to the RAC over the past 12 months:

• 45% of urban drivers have experienced vehicle crime compared to 15% in rural areas and 20% in suburban locations.
• Urban drivers report high rates of vandalism (19%), stolen possessions (13%), vehicle theft (11%), theft of parts (11%), and vehicle cloning (9%).Rural drivers
• report lower rates of incidents, but are equally worried about theft and vandalism, with 38% concerned about theft and 39% about vandalism.
• Rural drivers are particularly concerned about other motorists failing to leave a note after minor damage (34% vs 18% in urban areas).

“It’s very worrying to see so many drivers experience some form of vehicle crime over a 12-month period,” said RAC Insurance spokesperson Simon Williams. “Having a vehicle vandalised is both frustrating and costly, but having one stolen is a serious violation – incredibly stressful to resolve and highly inconvenient, given how essential cars are to our daily lives.”

Meanwhile, risk intelligence organisation Thatcham Research’s chief executive, Jonathan Hewett, said: “Vehicle theft is no longer just opportunistic – it’s increasingly driven by organised criminal gangs using sophisticated methods.”

“Tackling the threat means not only making cars harder to steal, but also disrupting the networks behind high-volume, tech-enabled theft.”

Quick tips to keep your cafe safe

Here are seven things to help keep your car safe, no matter where you live:

1. Use well-lit, busy areas or secure garages whenever possible.
2. Always lock doors, close windows, and remove valuables from sight.
3. Consider installing security devices such as alarms, immobilisers, or tracking devices.
4. Mark catalytic converters or other valuable components to deter theft.
5. Report suspicious activity in your area and check your car regularly.
6. Ensure your insurance policy covers theft and vandalism.
7. Keep your car keys from the front door or place them in a secure Faraday pouch to prevent relay theft.

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