A quarter of UK drivers say they have experienced vehicle crime in the past 12 months, according to new research from the RAC.
The study found that 26% of motorists have fallen victim to offences such as theft or vandalism, with those living in towns and cities far more likely to be affected than drivers in rural areas.
Urban drivers most at risk
Motorists in urban areas are three times more likely to experience vehicle crime than those in the countryside.
- 45% of drivers in towns and city centres report some form of vehicle crime
- 20% of those in suburban areas have been affected
- Just 15% of rural drivers say they have been targeted
In towns and cities, nearly one in five drivers, 19%, report deliberate scratches or dents to their vehicles over the past year. A further 13% say possessions have been stolen from inside their car.
By comparison, vandalism affects 7% of rural drivers, while only 2% report theft from inside their vehicle.
Theft and cloning concerns
The research also highlights:
- Vehicle theft, affecting 11% of urban drivers and 6% overall
- Theft of parts such as catalytic converters, wheels or steering wheels, at 11% in urban areas and 5% overall
- Vehicle cloning, where number plates are copied and used illegally, reported by 9% of urban drivers and 5% overall
- Motorists failing to leave a note after causing minor damage, affecting 9% in urban areas and 8% overall
While crime levels are lower in rural locations, concern remains high.
Rural drivers equally worried
Despite experiencing fewer incidents, 38% of rural motorists say they are concerned about their vehicle being stolen, the same proportion as urban drivers. Concerns about vandalism are also higher in rural areas, with 39% worried compared to 34% of drivers in towns and cities.
Interestingly, rural drivers are far more concerned about other motorists failing to leave contact details after causing damage, with 34% expressing worry compared to 18% in urban areas.
Insurance impact and organised crime
An RAC Insurance spokesperson said the findings are worrying, particularly as every incident contributes to rising insurance costs. Claiming for vandalism or theft can lead to higher future premiums, adding to what many drivers already see as one of their biggest motoring frustrations.
Jonathan Hewett, chief executive of Thatcham Research, warned that vehicle theft is increasingly driven by organised criminal gangs using sophisticated methods. He said tackling the issue requires not only better vehicle security but also action against the networks behind high-volume, technology-enabled theft.
Sourced via: RAC
