Lock It Down! Initiative Targets Vehicle Theft
The Insurance Council of Texas (ICT) and State Farm have joined forces to launch the “Lock It Down!” public education campaign. The initiative is designed to address the growing problem of motor vehicle theft, burglary, and fraud, especially during the upcoming holiday season and beyond.
The campaign emphasizes simple, yet effective, preventative measures drivers can take to protect their vehicles and belongings. “Through the Lock It Down campaign, we aim to empower the community with the knowledge and resources to protect their vehicles from theft and contribute to a safer environment for everyone,” said Rich Johnson, director of Communications and Public Affairs at ICT.
Lock It Down! encourages Texans to adopt safety habits, including:
- Locking vehicle doors
- Avoiding leaving vehicles running unattended
- Parking in well-lit and secure locations
- Not leaving valuables, particularly firearms, inside vehicles.
Data from the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA) highlights the severity of the issue in Texas. Over 65,000 cars and trucks are stolen annually in the state, with nearly 200,000 burglarized. Unlocked doors and keys left inside vehicles are significant contributing factors to these crimes.
The “Crime in Texas” report reveals a concerning trend. From 2021 to 2022, property crime related to motor vehicle theft rose by 10.13%. The total value of stolen vehicles increased from $1.57 billion to $1.72 billion during the same period, reflecting the rising costs of stolen vehicles.
State Farm, a key partner in the campaign, stresses the impact of individual actions. The insurer recommends locking vehicle doors, removing keys, and parking in well-lit areas to reduce the risk of theft.
National data underscores the nationwide nature of the problem. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported over 1 million vehicles stolen across the United States in 2022, resulting in over $8 billion in losses. Passenger cars accounted for about 74% of these thefts. Thieves are also targeting specific vehicle parts, such as catalytic converters, for their value.
