2 December 2008
An increase in car break-ins is expected in the weeks ahead as criminals target parked cars in the hope of stealing expensive Christmas presents.
According to AA insurance, car insurance claims for thefts from vehicles are likely to increase by up to 10% over December and January.
Simon Douglas, Director of AA Insurance, said: "We're urging shoppers to be extra vigilant when doing last minute shopping to make sure they are not inviting thieves, for whom the season is about anything but goodwill."
Motorists are advised to avoid storing purchases in their car while finishing their shopping, or if necessary to ensure they are secured out of sight.
They are also urged to check their car insurance policies carefully to ensure they have adequate cover for vehicle contents.
Insurance provider Diamond also warned shoppers recently not to leave handbags unattended in cars, pointing out that over 400,000 British women have had their bags stolen from their vehicles in the last 12 months.
Drivers who feel their insurance policy may not be giving them the best deal should switch now to a different supplier.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
Content for the uSwitch.com market news service is provided by a third party, Adfero Ltd. Whilst uSwitch.com makes reasonable efforts to check the reliability of this content, uSwitch.com does not guarantee the accuracy thereof or endorse the views or opinions given by Adfero Ltd, unless expressly stated otherwise.