It's been a season of shattered glass and jimmied locks across the Tar Heel State. North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey is stepping up with advice for vehicle owners in light of a surge in car break-ins. From bustling cities like Raleigh to quieter spots like Lexington, no corner has been immune, and the community's been left rattling keys a little tighter.
Causey, making the rounds in the hardest-hit areas, delivered a common-sense checklist geared toward thwarting thieves. According to a press release on the North Carolina Department of Insurance website, residents were reminded to secure their vehicles even if stepping away for the quick errand. The series of break-ins has been marked by a string of easy picks for criminals: Unlocked cars, visible gadgets, wallets left behind as if an invitation.
Amidst assisting local law enforcement, Causey's advisory ran the gamut from the usual "lock up" to the more proactive: employing anti-theft devices like wheel locks and tracking systems. Parking in well-lit areas was another tip aimed at deterring nocturnal prowlers. “Prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a theft” Commissioner Causey emphasized. He also nudged vehicle owners to give their auto insurance policies another once-over, ensuring that comprehensive coverage is in their arsenal should the worst occur, as per the North Carolina Department of Insurance.
As this spate of break-ins continues, the talked-about lesson is clear: Don’t make it easy for the bad guys. Stay alert, valuables out of sight, and when you spot suspicious behavior – report it. “Thieves are often looking for quick opportunities, so a few simple precautions can go a long way toward protecting your property,” Causey advised so as residents grapple with the uptick in such crimes. Ultimately, he urged everyone to contribute to keeping their neighborhoods secure, according to the North Carolina Department of Insurance.
