Auto Theft Prevention Advice from Foundation Financial Group for the New Year
(PRWEB) December 31, 2013 -- The National Insurance Crime Bureau revealed that New Year’s Day is the holiday with the most reported car thefts. Foundation Financial Group’s insurance affiliate, Foundation Insurance Services, offers the following advice from VP Kevin Alsup to remind people of practices that can prevent auto theft.
“During the holidays, people tend to be overwhelmed with preparations and celebrations. The possibility of becoming a victim of car theft is the furthest thing from their minds. Perhaps we all just need a reminder of the facts,” said Alsup.
A motor vehicle is stolen every 44 seconds in the United States, according to FBI statistics. New Year’s Day was number one on the NICB’s annual holiday vehicle theft report, and New Year’s Eve ranked number three. Alsup encourages every automobile owner to read and remember the following auto-theft prevention tips.
Finding parking in a populated and well-lit area is important because darkness comes quickly during the winter. Thieves are more likely to target vehicles that can be breached without attracting attention. Make sure all doors are locked, windows rolled up, and sun or moon roofs shut, even in your own driveway.
Be mindful of what can be seen through the windows, especially GPS units, purses, and other valuables. Get in the habit of removing all traces of your valued items, including wiping off the suction cup ring left by a GPS holder on the windshield. Keep presents and shopping bags stowed in the trunk. Stash valuables from sight before you arrive at your destination to maximize the effectiveness of your efforts.
Never leave the title in the glove box. Avoid keeping any documentation with personal data in your vehicle. Car thieves can quickly become identity thieves as well. Keep a record of your license plate number, VIN number, and insurance information outside the vehicle. If your car is stolen or burglarized, you will need to provide that information to the police along with vehicle’s make, model, year of manufacture, and color.
If your vehicle is stolen, you might be entitled to compensation from your insurance company. Liability insurance, which comes with lower premiums, does not cover car theft. Comprehensive coverage will cover some, if not all, expenses related to car theft or burglary. Reimbursement for possessions stolen from a vehicle may be covered through a homeowner’s insurance policy or car theft insurance, an add-on option for residential renters.
“If you live or work in a neighborhood where car thefts are a common concern, you should definitely consider comprehensive coverage,” continued Alsup. “There are many factors to consider, such as whether the depreciated value of the vehicle makes paying the insurance deductible and premiums worthwhile. I recommend talking with your insurance agent about your current coverage to determine if you are protected for such an event.”
For well over a decade, Alsup has helped thousands of Americans find peace of mind through his expertise in the insurance industry. He holds a finance degree from Troy University in Troy, Alabama. Alsup is a golfing enthusiast who volunteers at many local charities such as St. Baldrick’s Foundation, Life Rolls On, and Second Harvest.
To be sure that you and your loved ones are properly insured, visit insurance.ffg.com.
About Foundation Financial Group
Foundation Financial Group is a multibillion dollar financial services corporation. FFG offers its customers Best in Class service through its Insurance, Retirement, and Mortgage Services. Named one of the fastest growing financial companies in the country by Inc. Magazine for the third year running, FFG has continued to grow its nationwide presence with over 100,000 new customers per year in 39 states. In addition to the value that Foundation Financial provides every customer, it is also dedicated to its communities and the people who live in them. Through a vast array of philanthropic endeavors, the company not only provides significant monetary donations but also fosters a workforce environment that encourages all team members to personally make a difference. Foundation Financial is committed to its strong focus on customer service and community investment as it continues to grow and compete with the largest financial institutions in the world.
Foundation Financial Group reviews all public relations inquiries. For additional information, interview and image requests, contact the Foundation Financial Group Public Relations Team.
Francesca R. Zagami, Foundation Financial Group, http://www.ffg.com, +1 (904) 861-0705, [email protected]
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