Car thefts are down for the second year in a row, according to the recently released annual “Hot Spots” report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). The data show there were 794,019 stolen vehicles reported in 2019, compared to 819,988 in 2018 and 833,740 in 2017.
And the geographic area taking the top spot for vehicle thefts is Bakersfield, CA, with 6,538 thefts and a theft rate of 726.28. The rate is the number of vehicle thefts per 100,000 residents. According to the NICB study, this area would include the county of Kern — not just the city of Bakersfield. Bakersfield jumped to No. 1 this year from the No. 3 spot on the 2018 list.
Leaving the top spot from last year and dropping to No. 2 is Albuquerque, NM, with 6,399 thefts and a theft rate of 697.05.
Vehicle Theft Hot Spots
There were 11 states that experienced an increase in vehicle thefts. Missouri took the top spot for having the highest vehicle theft per 100,000 residents. The Show-Me State has a population of over 6.1 million making it the 18th most populated state .
No matter where you live, there are some general tips that can help to decrease the likelihood of your car getting stolen. Also, be sure your auto insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage to protect you in case of a theft.
Auto insurance has increased by 5% since last year. Check out to see where your state falls in the ranks.
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