Auto theft statistics have reached unique highs in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area’ in 2021. Regardless of the type of vehicle you own, there’s always the unfortunate risk of falling victim to this crime.
There’s no feeling quite like the shock and dismay one feels when an owner realizes that their vehicle has been stolen – it can be any vehicle, any time, public parking’s or even from one’s own driveway.
Vehicles are generally stolen for one of the following reasons:
- Stolen vehicles are often immediately shipped abroad, where they are sold for many times their original market value. Or they are sold to unsuspecting consumers locally, after the stolen vehicles are given a false VIN.
- The stolen vehicles are dismantled and sold for parts, both locally or internationally.
- “Joyriding” to get somewhere. These vehicles are often carelessly used and later abandoned.
- Stolen vehicles are sometimes used to commit other crimes are often recovered abandoned and badly damaged.
One of the key factors insurers use to set your insurance premium is how often your make and model of vehicle, is stolen. Many auto owners know the feeling all too well, as rates of premiums are currently soaring in Canada.
The Top 10 Auto Thefts by Vehicle Make and Model as revealed by Toronto Police are:
- Honda Cr-V – 654
- Lexus Rx350 – 418
- Honda Civic – 260
- Land Rover Range Rover – 225
- Toyota Highlander – 200
- Ford F150 – 176
- Honda Accord – 145
- Toyota Corolla – 123
- Toyota Rav – 70
- Hyundai Elantra – 62
Some Measures Owners Can Take To Avoid Car Theft As Suggested By Toronto Police
- Do not leave the vehicles engine running with keys inside. Ensure you keep all your valuables out of sight. Ownership or insurance papers should not be left in the vehicle while unattended. Securely close all windows and doors, and turn your wheels to the side to make your vehicle harder to tow.
- Park you vehicles in a well-lit, attended area, if possible.
- At home, utilize a parking garage and lock it, if applicable.
- If possible install a motion sensor light to light up your vehicles and garage, install security cameras outside that point at your vehicle if possible.
- Using a visible steering wheel lock and when not in use, placing your vehicle fob key inside a faraday bag (radio frequency shielding bag/pouch) to block cell signals.
- If you own a rear-wheel drive vehicle, back into your driveway and park front-end first if your vehicle is a front-wheel drive.
- Report it to police immediately, if your vehicle does happen to get stolen.
At AiA Insurance, we are dedicated to providing more than just reliable protection for your vehicle. Our Agents are experts on Auto Insurance and can provide you with fair rates and create the best quote for you. We value the safety of you and your vehicle.
