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Just Curious
- July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month
- AAA Northeast states that there are simple steps people can take to avoid vehicle thefts
- There are two kinds of vehicles stolen more often than others in Massachusetts
With July being National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, AAA Northeast is making sure that people take preventative measures against vehicle theft.
Vehicle thefts increase during summer, according to AAA Northeast, and in Massachusetts, there are two kinds of cars that are stolen more than others, according to a separate study.
“Vehicle thefts and break-ins have been far too common in recent years, and typically spike in the summer,” Mark Schieldrop, senior spokesperson for AAA Northeast, said in a written statement. “But by putting the proper protections in place, thieves are less likely to take off with your car or valuable items inside.”
Here’s what to know.
What are the statistics on vehicle theft in the U.S.?
In 2023, just over a million vehicles were stolen in the U.S. the peak of four year surge, according National Insurance Crime Bureau. Last year, that number dropped 17% to about 850,000 stolen vehicles.
Despite the decrease, approximately one vehicle is still stolen every 37 seconds in the U.S. according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
How many vehicle thefts in Massachusetts in 2024?
In Massachusetts, there were 7,540 reported motor vehicle thefts in 2024, according to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
“The latest FBI data shows that over 38% of vehicle thefts in Massachusetts took place from May to August,” according to AAA Northeast.
What vehicles are stolen the most in Massachusetts?
According to a study by Voronoi, the most stolen cars in Massachusetts are the Honda Accord and the Hyundai Elantra.
How can people prevent vehicle thefts?
AAA Northeast recommends the following to prevent vehicle thefts:
- Roll up your windows and lock your car when parked.
- Remove the keys and any valuables.
- Store key fobs as far away from your car as possible and consider putting them in a metal container to prevent a signal boosting attack.
- Park in well-lit areas and/or areas visible to you or protected by security cameras.
- Never leave your car running unattended.
AAA Northeast noted in a release that, “Immediately reporting a stolen vehicle in the first 24 hours increases your chance of recovery by 34%, according to the NICB. Once you’ve filed a police report, notify your insurance company about the theft. Have information ready including your vehicle’s make and model, license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN).”
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