Keeping Your Vehicle Safe
In recent months, there has been an increase in the theft of high-value vehicles in Nigeria. using sophisticated technology, organised gangs are gaining access to the vehicle’s on-board diagnostic unit, thereby compromising the vehicle’s security and enabling the car to be stolen without a key.
However, you don’t have to become another statistic – you can proactively help reduce the chance of becoming a victim of vehicle theft.
Here are some handy tips:
Park your vehicle somewhere safe
Make sure that your vehicle is always parked a safe place. Ideally, you should keep your vehicle in a garage if you have one; sometimes, insurance policies require that certain vehicles must be parked in a garage. If you are away from home, you should find a place that is CCTV monitored or has a manned car park. If none of these options are available, then leave your vehicle in an area which is well-lit. Use all physical security measures which are available to you – for example, if you have lockable gates on your driveway, always make sure that they are locked.
Immobilise your car
It is advisable to use either a steering wheel or gear lock. Physical devices will act as a deterrent to potential thieves and make it harder for them to steal the vehicle.
Look into purchasing a tracker
Purchasing a tracker will enhance your vehicle’s security and greatly increase the chance of recovery if the vehicle is stolen. Conduct some research and find out which tracker is best for you; some won’t work underground whereas some will immediately alert you once somebody has tampered with your car. A vehicle tracking consultant, insurance broker or insurer should be able to provide further information on the different levels of trackers available. Certain vehicles, depending on the type or value, require trackers to be fitted in any case for insurance purposes.
Unfortunately, the worst will often occur when you least expect it. By taking some of these steps, you should have peace of mind that you have been proactive in making it harder for thieves to target your vehicle.
