Keep cars safe from spiking summertime vehicle thefts

RICHMOND—Summer may be perfect for barbecues and vacations, but it’s also a hot season for car thieves.

Vehicle thefts spike during summertime, and that’s why police departments, transportation associations and organizations like Drive Smart Virginia remind people about car security during July’s Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.

“Vehicle thefts have increased 25% over the past few years,” said David Tenembaum, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. (VFBMIC), senior actuarial manager and Drive Smart Virginia board member. “Having a vehicle stolen is not only an inconvenience; it’s a violation of your personal safety and security. Luckily there are precautions people can take to help prevent it from happening.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that more than one million vehicles were stolen in 2022, costing vehicle owners over $8 billion. A vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the U.S., and passenger cars…..

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