Motorists warned not to become a victim of summer car crime

With the hot weather set to continue, the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) is concerned that there could be a dramatic increase in the number of cars being stolen as owners leave their vehicles unattended with their windows or roofs open.

It warns motorists that by failing to take precautions to secure their vehicles, their insurance policies could be invalidated if either their car or items inside are stolen.

During the year, around one in 85 cars will be stolen. This increases to around one in 27 when you include those cars that are also broken into.

Graeme Trudgill, BIBA’s Technical Services Manager, says: "Cars are becoming increasingly difficult to steal thanks to advanced security systems and immobilisers, but during the summer months opportunistic thieves will be keeping an eye out for vehicles that are left open and unattended.

"Motorists must be aware that if their vehicle or possessions are stolen under such circumstances, insurers may not pay out as policies include a ‘reasonable care’ clause, whereby the insurer may reject a claim on the grounds of the policyholder being ‘reckless’ in not safeguarding the vehicle. Most policies also have a "keys in car " or "vehicle left unattended" clause which exclude claims in these circumstances. "

To help reduce your chances of being a victim of car crime, BIBA offers motorists the following advice:

Never leave windows open or convertible roofs down when the car is unoccupied
Don’t leave your doors unlocked when leaving the vehicle
Never leave the keys in the ignition when you are not driving the car
Park in well-lit areas as this could deter thieves
Never leave valuables on display whilst you are driving or when you leave the vehicle