Insure you have a good Christmas

InsureYourMotor boss David Harlow warns motorists to be extra vigilant this Christmas, following an increase in theft from vehicles across the UK. Two patterns of crime are emerging this Christmas. The first involves thieves stealing valuables whilst vehicles are left unattended in car parks, whilst their owners are fighting their way around the busy high streets. Secondly, and more worrying, is the increase in muggings occurring when people return from the shops to load their expensive haul of Christmas presents into their cars. David Harlow comments: "Sadly these are all opportunist crimes that could be prevented if people were a little bit more vigilant and careful with their property. Our advice is not to leave anything of value in your car at all, even if you think it is well hidden. And if you're loading or unloading your car at anytime or place, please keep all personal possessions on you and if possible, out of sight." There are around 2 million cases of theft from vehicles every year in the UK with Christmas being a particularly peak time for thieves to strike. They are well aware that people spend more money at this time of year when out shopping, and have a much greater choice of victims. Vehicle crime accounts for about a fifth of all crime in the UK and costs the country at least £3.5bn a year. However, you should be aware that your insurance may not always cover you for everything that gets stolen. David Harlow explains: “The average insurance policy will only cover you for about £50 of stolen goods from your vehicle. If you are out shopping for Christmas presents, the value of your shopping may well exceed this value, so check your policies for what you are covered for.” “Obviously prevention is better than cure, so you should be extra vigilant when out shopping this year. Make sure you car is locked and alarmed and left in a secure car park where possible.”