5 Vehicle Security Tips: Vehicle Vandalism Rates Double On Halloween

Those of us who care about our cars and trucks take special care to make sure they’re not damaged. Still, parking outside is a reality for many drivers who don’t have the luxury of garage space. Vehicles parked outside should be secured as well as possible to avoid theft and vandalism, especially on Halloween. A new report shows that vehicle vandalism claims nearly double on October 31, compared to the average day.

Highway Data Loss Institute (HLDI), an insurance industry-funded research organization, reviewed claims over a five year period and found that vandalism claims spiked to 80% above the average rate on Halloween. HLDI reports an average cost per claim of more than $1,500.

Be Prepared

If you have access to secure space to store your vehicle tonight, be sure to use it. If not, these vehicle security tips arm you with some KNOW HOW to keep your precious car or truck safe on this ominous night and all year long.

1. Park in a well-lit area but away from foot traffic if possible. Vandals and thieves are opportunists. If your vehicle is out of the way, it’s less likely to become a target in the first place.
2. Be sure to take your valuables with you. Removing small items from plain view is wise, too. Even a sunglasses case, some loose coins or a stray phone cable can attract trouble.
3. Lower your antenna. “Park” your windshield wiper arms. Along with side mirrors, parts like these that extend from the vehicle are targets for damage by vandals.
4. Always lock your doors.
5. Install an alarm or use a steering wheel lock.

If vandals or thieves do strike–on Halloween or any other day–respond quickly by calling local law enforcement. And if you carry comprehensive insurance on your vehicle, make an insurance claim. If you decide to repair your vehicle yourself, parts including headlight lenses, taillight lenses, mirrors, wipers and antennas are all available from NAPA Auto Parts.

Check out all the maintenance parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on vehicle security tips, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy of Flickr.