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ICT and State Farm Join Forces to Combat Auto Theft in Texas

In an effort to combat the growing issue of auto theft in Texas, the Insurance Council of Texas (ICT) and State Farm have launched a new public awareness campaign called Lock It Down. This initiative is specifically designed to educate and empower Texans about vehicle theft prevention during the holiday season and beyond. As the excitement of holiday shopping and travel approaches, it is crucial for drivers to be aware of the risks and the simple steps they can take to protect their vehicles from thieves.

The Alarming Statistics

Texas experiences significant rates of vehicle theft, with over 65,000 vehicles stolen and nearly 200,000 burglaries reported annually. In fact, the property crime value associated with vehicle theft in Texas surged by 10.13% from 2021 to 2022. The total value of stolen vehicles climbed from over $1.5 billion to about $1.7 billion during this period. Rich Johnson, the Director of Communications and Public Affairs at ICT, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that possessing knowledge of preventive measures is key to reducing these troubling statistics.

Simple Steps to Prevent Vehicle Theft

The Lock It Down campaign encourages drivers to adopt a few straightforward measures to deter thieves:

1. Lock Your Doors: Always ensure that your vehicle's doors are locked.
2. Take Your Keys: Don't leave your keys in the ignition or inside the vehicle, even if you're just stepping away for a moment.
3. Choose Safe Parking: Opt for well-lit parking spaces when leaving your vehicle unattended.
4. Avoid Leaving Valuables Inside: Never leave valuables, particularly firearms, visible in your car. This can prompt break-ins and escalate safety risks.
5. Secure Your Vehicle: Utilize wheel locks or other securing mechanisms to add an extra layer of protection.

Understanding the Targeted Vehicles

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 1 million vehicles were stolen in the United States in 2022, leading to $8 billion in losses. Among these, market vehicles, especially Honda, Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota sedans, along with Chevrolet and Ford pickups, are frequently targeted.

Raising Community Awareness

State Farm, a prominent driving force behind this initiative, aims to stress the need for community awareness and proactive vigilance. A representative from State Farm remarked, “By taking preventive steps, communities can come together to make significant strides toward reducing vehicle theft.” The implementation of simple practices not only helps in protecting individual vehicles but subsequently contributes to creating a safer environment for all.

A Call to Action for the Holiday Season

As the holiday season draws near, bringing with it shopping sprees and increased travel, the Lock It Down campaign aims to remind individuals about the importance of taking precautions. Engaging with local law enforcement and community organizations can further enhance the campaign's outreach and effectiveness.

In conclusion, vehicle theft represents a growing concern for drivers in Texas and across the nation. By taking simple, proactive measures, Texans can advocate for their own safety and security. For those seeking additional information on safeguarding their vehicles, the Lock It Down website offers a plethora of resources and tips to ensure safer driving during the festive season.

For more about the initiative, visit Lock It Down.

About ICT and State Farm

The Insurance Council of Texas is a dedicated nonprofit trade association committed to promoting the property and casualty insurance industry. Meanwhile, State Farm operates as the largest provider of auto and home insurance in the U.S. Together, their collaborative efforts aim to inform and protect Texas drivers from prevalent threats like auto theft.

This partnership embodies a community-focused response to an urgent public safety issue, enhancing the overall quality of life for Texas residents during the holidays and beyond.