You can do a lot to protect your vehicle from theft or break-ins, such as by using an anti-theft device and removing any packages or personal property from sight.
You may be able to save money on your insurance, too.
Ever drive down a street and see a vehicle you think might be stolen? You can get involved in the battle against auto crime.
If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you may be eligible for a discount on your Comprehensive or Specified Perils Autoplan insurance.
Bait cars were launched on unsuspecting car thieves in 2004 when our province had the unenviable reputation as having one of the highest rates of car theft in North America. Supported by our award-winning advertising campaigns, auto thieves are now well aware that Bait Cars are Everywhere: Steal a Bait Car — Go to Jail.
Over the last six years, auto theft in B.C. has dropped a whopping 55 per cent.
Operated by the Integrated Municipal Provincial Auto Crime Team (IMPACT), B.C.’s bait cars are the largest bait car fleet in North America.
After a bait car is stolen, the location, speed, and direction of travel of the vehicle is monitored by police Everything that takes place inside the bait car is caught on audio and video. The dispatcher will coordinate a police response and once officers are in position behind the bait car, the engine will be disabled at the click of a mouse button which allows for the quick arrest of the car thieves.
See real thieves get caught on baitcar.com.
Auto theft in B.C. is dropping
What are the chances of your vehicle being stolen? It depends, in part, on where you live.
The good news is, auto theft rates are dropping in most places*:
*Based on claims reported to ICBC, 2003-09.
Protect yourself against auto crime
Auto crime fact sheet (PDF)
Top stolen vehicles in 2009: