Drivers warned of rise in car thefts over Christmas period with millions at risk

Motorists are being urged to stay extra vigilant as a wave of thefts begin sweeping over the country due to the colder periods.

The warning comes after reports found that vehicles were being particularly targeted during the winter freeze, with over £4million worth of stolen vehicles recovered in just three months last winter.

Vehicle recovery experts Tracker revealed that between November 2023 and January 2024 it marked peak season for vehicle thefts linked to cold weather, as criminals took advantage of drivers leaving cars unattended while defrosting.

“Frost jacking” typically occurs when thieves spot an unlocked car with keys in the ignition, as drivers leave vehicles running to warm up and clear icy windows.

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Opportunistic crime puts motorists at risk of both losing their vehicle and invalidating their insurance coverage in the process.

Now experts warn that while the temptation to leave cars running unattended during cold mornings is strong, the risk of theft is too significant to ignore.

This practice is particularly dangerous whether vehicles are left on private driveways or public roads, as thieves actively seek out vulnerable targets during the winter months.

The combination of dark mornings and freezing temperatures creates perfect conditions for opportunistic car thieves looking for easy targets.

Beyond theft risks, motorists face legal consequences for leaving vehicles running unattended during defrosting.

Leaving an engine running on a public road violates regulations 98 and 107 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, as well as rule 123 of the Highway Code.

‘Engine quitting’ – leaving a vehicle’s engine running whilst not in the vehicle – can result in fines ranging from £20 to £80.

Drivers also risk three penalty points and a fine for failing to properly defrost their windscreen before driving.

Clive Wain, Head of Police Liaison at Tracker, said: “Whilst it can be very tempting to leave your car running on these cold and dark mornings, the wider risk of theft if just too strong.

“Although it isn’t always the nicest option, staying with your vehicle in frosty conditions can help to prevent theft, invalid insurance, fines and penalty points. Wrap up warm and stay with your car whilst you are defrosting the windows, whether it is on your driveway or parked in the road.”

Wain also recommended using both new and traditional security methods to protect vehicles, particularly during winter months when daylight hours are reduced.

He suggests that one of the most effective ways to safeguard cars during winter is installing a tracking unit, which can significantly improve recovery chances if theft occurs.

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