6 November 2008
Motorists are being warned not to leave valuable items unattended in their cars as they could encourage opportunistic thieves to break in. Research carried out by the car insurance provider LV= shows that one in four drivers have been the victim of a car break-in. However, eight out of ten have left items such as wallets and mobile phones in their vehicles while they are parked up, which is likely to attract criminals. The most common items stolen from unattended vehicles are detachable car stereos, CDs and purses, while the average value of these items is £300. Emma Holyer, a spokesperson for LV= Car Insurance, said: "These figures show a casual attitude amongst motorists when it comes to leaving their belongings in their car." She urged drivers to take high value items out of their cars when they lock up and to check their car insurance policies to ensure they are covered for vehicle contents. Meanwhile, the AA is warning drivers not to leave their cars running with the keys in the ignition while they pay at a petrol station or pop back into their house, as this would invalidate an insurance claim should their vehicle be stolen.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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