Why Securing Your Vehicle is a Good Idea to Prevent any Future Mishap

Vehicle ownership comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and one of the most crucial ones is ensuring the safety and security of your vehicle. A stolen or damaged vehicle can lead to not only financial loss but also emotional distress. This is also especially prevalent when taking into account vehicles as a part of a business. For example, a trucking business relies solely on the function and operation of the vehicles, therefore it is important to secure the trucks whether it’s a tipper or an HGV. Getting easy Truck Fleet Insurance is important, and finding a policy to suit the needs and requirements of your business is a must. 

It’s essential to know that the existing advanced safety technology, like driver monitoring systems, lane-departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking, can considerably alleviate crashes. But only in the event the technology becomes typical equipment in new cars. When technology, underwritten by standards, backstopped by accountability, and bolstered by — can annually spare thousands of families from setbacks and tragedy, our federal authorities must act.

This is when securing your car can go a long way in avoiding unnecessary mishaps that could lead to tiresome consequences. Having said that, this text will discuss the benefits of securing your vehicle and the various measures that can be taken to do so.

The Importance of Securing Your Vehicle

The importance of safeguarding your car cannot be emphasized enough. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, around 750,000 vehicles were stolen in the United States in 2020 alone.

Well, guess what? This number is staggering, underscoring the need for vehicle owners to protect their vehicles. Vehicle theft not only leads to financial loss but also poses a safety risk, as stolen vehicles can be used for illegal activities.

Methods of Securing Your Vehicle

• Physical security measures: Vehicle owners can install car alarms, immobilizers, steering wheel locks, and GPS tracking systems to secure their vehicles. These devices not only help deter theft but also aid in recovering the car in case of theft.
• Common-sense security measures: Parking in well-lit areas, avoiding leaving the vehicle unattended for extended periods, locking all doors and windows, and removing valuables from plain sight are some common-sense security measures that vehicle owners can take to secure their vehicles.
• Garage or secure parking space: Investing in a garage or safe parking space can further enhance vehicle security and protect it from theft, weather damage, and other potential hazards. 

Vital insight related to GPS tracking systems

Sure! Here are some relevant data, facts, figures, and statistics about vehicle GPS systems and vehicle GPS tracking systems:

1. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in the United States, a motor vehicle is stolen every 40 seconds.
2. The NHTSA also reports that only about 56% of stolen vehicles are recovered.
3. The average value of a stolen vehicle is $8,400 according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
4. In a survey conducted by the Insurance Research Council, it was found that 20% of drivers do not lock their cars when they park them.
5. In a report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), it was found that the top 10 most stolen vehicles in the United States in 2020 were:

• Honda Civic
• Honda Accord
• Chevrolet Silverado
• Toyota Camry
• Nissan Altima
• Toyota Corolla
• Dodge Ram
• GMC Sierra
• Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee
• Ford F-Series

1. RAM Tracking vehicle traker can help recover stolen vehicles quickly. In fact, the NICB reports that 90% of vehicles with GPS tracking systems that were reported stolen were recovered.
2. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), GPS tracking systems can improve fleet management by reducing fuel costs, increasing vehicle utilization, and improving driver safety.
3. A report by Frost & Sullivan predicts that the global market for commercial vehicle telematics (which includes GPS tracking systems) will reach $14.1 billion by 2025.

These statistics show that vehicle theft is a serious problem and that GPS tracking systems can be an effective tool in preventing vehicle theft and recovering stolen vehicles.

Benefits of Securing Your Vehicle

• Prevent theft
• Reduce insurance premiums
• Protect from financial loss
• Increase resale value

Securing your vehicle has numerous benefits that can save money and give you peace of mind. By installing physical security measures like alarms, steering wheel locks, and immobilizers, you can prevent theft and reduce the risk of financial loss. Many insurance companies offer discounts for vehicles with advanced security measures installed, making it a cost-effective investment for vehicle owners.

Moreover, safeguarding your vehicle can also lead to peace of mind. By doing so, you would not have to worry about the safety and security of your vehicle, even if it is parked in a public place. Additionally, securing it can increase its resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to pay a higher price for a vehicle that has been well-maintained and secured.

Potential Consequences of Not Securing Your Vehicle

• Risk of theft: Not securing your vehicle can increase the risk of theft. An unsecured vehicle is an easy target for thieves, who can steal it quickly and easily.
• Financial loss: Vehicle theft can result in significant financial loss, as the owner may have to bear the cost of repairing or replacing the stolen vehicle. This can be a substantial burden for many vehicle owners.
• Use in criminal activities: A stolen vehicle can be used for criminal activities, leading to potential legal trouble for the owner. If the stolen vehicle is used in a crime, the owner may be liable for any damages or injuries caused.
• Legal situation: Insurance companies may not cover the cost of theft if the owner has not taken reasonable precautions to secure the vehicle. This can result in legal trouble for the owner if they cannot cover the cost of the stolen vehicle.
• Insurance coverage issues: Vehicle theft can also result in issues with insurance coverage. Insurance companies may require proof of forced entry or signs of damage to the vehicle to provide coverage for theft.
• Emotional distress: Losing a vehicle can be a traumatic experience for the owner, especially if it holds sentimental value. It can also lead to inconvenience, as the owner may have to find alternative modes of transportation while waiting for the stolen vehicle to be recovered or replaced.

Legal Requirements for Vehicle Security

Many countries have legal requirements for vehicle security. For example, in the United States, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) mandates the installation of anti-theft devices in vehicles. Similarly, in the UK, all new vehicles must have immobilizers installed as per European Union regulations. Vehicle owners must be aware of the legal requirements for vehicle security in their respective countries and comply with them.

The Verdict

As already discussed, securing your vehicle is imperative to prevent future mishaps. More so, vehicle owners can avoid theft, reduce insurance premiums, and enjoy peace of mind by investing in physical security measures and common-sense security measures. Securing your vehicle is not only a wise financial decision but also a responsible decision.

Vehicle theft can have serious consequences not only for the owner but also for the community as a whole. By taking the necessary steps to secure your vehicle, you are protecting your investment and contributing to a safer and more secure environment. So, make sure to secure your vehicle and stay protected.