Co-op launches online map of the nation’s car crime hotspots

Co-op Insurance has launched a new interactive map which displays the number of vehicle related crimes in postcodes across the country.

Park Smart aims to help people make sensible choices as to where to park their car, based on the number of vehicle related crimes that have taken place over the last six months using government crime data.

Users simply enter their postcode from anywhere across England and Wales and the Park Smart tool will highlight the risk level in each area based on vehicle theft, theft from a vehicle and vandalism.

Areas are colour coded red, orange or yellow to make it easy for users to identify areas of concern.

Vehicle crime remains one of the most well reported incidents on police record and so Co-op Insurance is urging motorists to park securely in order to avoid break-ins.

James Hillon, Director of Products at Co-op Insurance: “Year on year we see a 20% increase in car thefts across the UK. Our tool will allow drivers to make safer choices about parking and in turn, help to keep communities safe.”

As well as choosing a parking space with low crime rates, Co-op Insurance advises that motorists should: 

Park close to other cars

Turn wheels towards surrounding vehicles

Turn wheels towards the curb

Park on main roads or near shops and restaurants

If you have a steering lock, use it

Furthermore, it’s advised that drivers keep bags and coats out of sight as criminals could mistake them for concealing valuables. Any paperwork which includes identity should also be kept from view.

To find out the car crime rates in your area visit hub.co-opinsurance.co.uk/park-smart/