Is a lack of deterrents making rural Britain a car thieves' paradise?

On: 25/06/2012 16:49 In: Vehicle Tracking

Recent research sponsored by NFU Mutual has reported that some areas of rural Britain have become crime hotspots, thanks to their remote locations and a lack of deterrents such as CCTV. And while homes and businesses in more rural locations are spending more to protect their property, it is also prompting many to look again at their car security. Car theft is still relatively uncommon in rural locations, but as with car crime in general in the UK it is on the rise. So when is your vehicle most at risk?

Surprisingly, according to the NFU, it's during the day and in relatively busy areas such as beauty spots. It's often down to a lack of awareness by the driver of the vehicle - just because a spot is tranquil and surrounded by countryside does not mean that you can leave your vehicle unlocked! But unfortunately this is what often happens, with car owners being lulled into a false sense of security and letting their usual security standards slip momentarily. Opportunist thieves only need a split second to break into and steal an unlocked vehicle, and with fewer CCTV systems in the countryside it is often impossible to capture vehicle theft on camera.

This is where Remote Asset Management tracking comes in. By fitting a vehicle with a tracking system, it is easier and quicker to locate a stolen vehicle, whether you're in a rural or urban location. And a faster recovery time means less chance that the vehicle will be damaged beyond repair or used in further criminal activities.

The installation of a remote vehicle tracking device can also make a considerable difference to the cost of insurance, and while premiums are often cheaper in the countryside than they are in high-crime urban areas, for example, prices are increasing as insurance agencies recognise the increasing problem of rural crime. So no matter where you live - whether you're fortunate enough to live in glorious isolation in the middle of the countryside or are a dashing urbanite - protecting your vehicle against theft by installing a tracking device is a sensible and cost-effective precaution.