There is nothing quite like buying that first car with your own money. Buying a car is a milestone in one’s life, and having a car is not just a matter of convenience but also about status. So, it is natural to prevent any danger to your vehicle. One such danger is car theft, a problem in India and many other countries worldwide. The worse thing is, even when you are lucky and get your stolen car back, it is rarely in the same condition and may have critical missing parts, which take a lot of money to repair or replace.
In India, most of us park our cars outside our houses or buildings on the street, putting our precious vehicles at an added risk of theft. Here are a few tips to prevent your vehicle from being stolen:
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Always check the locks:
As soon as you step out of your car, make sure you lock the car. Make it a habit to check and recheck the locks when leaving the vehicle unattended and going somewhere, even if it is getting down to pick up some groceries. Don’t assume leaving the vehicle unlocked even if you are nearby is safe. Also, if possible, park your car in a well-lit area, not a secluded one, and then lock it.
Do not keep valuables inside:
One of the surest ways to attract robbers is to keep valuable items inside the car and leave them unattended. Do not leave laptops, jewelry, cash, smartphones, or wallets in the car, even if you want to grab something. And if it is necessary to keep these things inside the vehicle, ensure they are hidden from view and adequately covered.
Carry original documents with you:
Original copies of your documents, such as RC (registration of your car), driving license, car insurance policy documents, and so on, must always be with you. If your vehicle gets stolen along with these documents, it becomes tough for the police to help you.
Install anti-theft devices:
One way to prevent car theft or decrease its chances is by installing an anti-theft system in your car. You can use dash-cams, anti-theft alarms, telematics devices, steering wheel locks, electronic immobilizers, etc., to keep your vehicle safe and prevent the risk of stealing your car.
While keeping your car safe, it is also crucial to have vehicle insurance. Third-party vehicle insurance has been made mandatory by the Indian government; however, you can also go for comprehensive insurance to ensure your car has 360-degree protection. Make sure you compare the car insurance prices in the market and the various benefits offered by different car insurance companies and choose the one that suits you best. Lastly, note that insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
