The Car Theft Epidemic

A Growing Concern Across Europe

The alarming statistics surrounding car theft have left many in the European region on high alert. A staggering 20 cars are stolen every day, with nearly 7,500 cars being stolen each year. This translates to approximately one car being stolen every 70 minutes. These numbers are even more alarming when considering the global perspective, with the study revealing that Portugal has one of the lower rates of car theft in Europe. Despite this, the country still ranks 7th among European countries in terms of car theft per 100,000 inhabitants.

A European Comparison

It is interesting to note that the rates of car theft vary greatly across the continent. Italy leads the pack with an astonishing 222 car thefts per 100,000 inhabitants, followed closely by France with 211 car thefts per 100,000 inhabitants. The Netherlands, Greece, and the United Kingdom also make the top 10 list, with 108, 148, and 93 car thefts per 100,000 inhabitants respectively.

Portugal’s Position in the Rankings

Despite its relatively high rate of car theft, Portugal still ranks lower than other European countries. The country’s 71 car thefts per 100,000 inhabitants put it in 7th place, a position that is still lower than other regions in Southern Europe. Furthermore, Portugal’s rate is lower compared to other countries worldwide.

Expert Insights

According to the Managing Director of Insurance at Compare the Market, Adrian Taylor, “without theft insurance, stolen cars can cost you thousands of dollars in damages.” He emphasizes the importance of having adequate car insurance to protect oneself from the risks associated with car theft.

The Threat of Electronic Devices

The study also highlights the growing threat of electronic devices used by thieves to bypass security systems. This growing trend emphasizes the need for car owners to take extra precautions to secure their vehicles.

Protecting Yourself from Car Theft

The study provides top tips for protecting yourself from car theft, including:

• Make sure your doors are locked
• Park in safe areas
• Use steering wheel locks

Additionally, the study suggests that car owners should consider investing in theft insurance to minimize the financial impact of a stolen vehicle.

Top 10 European Countries with the Most Vehicle Thefts

Expert Advice

Adrian Taylor emphasizes the importance of having theft insurance to protect oneself from the risks associated with car theft. He notes that “without theft insurance, stolen cars can cost you thousands of dollars in damages.” He suggests that car owners should take extra precautions to secure their vehicles and invest in theft insurance to minimize the financial impact of a stolen vehicle.

Quote from Adrian Taylor

“Without theft insurance, stolen cars can cost you thousands of dollars in damages. It is crucial to ensure you have adequate car insurance to protect yourself from the risks associated with car theft. Make sure you lock your doors, park in safe areas, and use steering wheel locks to prevent theft.”

Conclusion

The car theft epidemic continues to be a growing concern across Europe. Despite the high rates of car theft, Portugal still ranks lower than other European countries. The study highlights the importance of having adequate car insurance to protect oneself from the risks associated with car theft. By taking extra precautions and investing in theft insurance, car owners can minimize the financial impact of a stolen vehicle. As Adrian Taylor emphasizes, “without theft insurance, stolen cars can cost you thousands of dollars in damages.” Therefore, it is essential to prioritize car security and invest in theft insurance to protect yourself from the risks associated with car theft.