Nationwide, over 650,000 motorists fall victim to car theft every year, with an eye-opening statistic of a vehicle being stolen every 48 seconds, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.<\/p>\n
A car is vitally important to millions of New Yorkers, and to find your car missing is immensely stressful and costly. Our investigators work hard to recover stolen automobiles and to help set things right for victims of these crimes. You too can take steps to protect your investment in your vehicle. –\u00a0New York State DMV Acting Commissioner Christian Jackstadt<\/p>\n
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Ways To Help Prevent Vehicle Theft<\/p>\n
So, what are things you can do to help prevent your vehicle(s) from being stolen? Here are some tips from the NYS DMV:<\/p>\n
When you park, close and lock all windows and doors.Do not leave your key fob in the vehicle.Park in well-lit areas if possible.Do not leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they are visible.How To Spot A Stolen Vehicle For Sale<\/p>\n
Eyeing a vehicle for sale? Be sure you are not unintentionally buying a stolen vehicle. Here are some things to keep in mind before handing over that hard-earned cash, according to the NYS DMV:<\/p>\n
Obtain an independent vehicle inspection to examine the Vehicle Identification Number found on the vehicle.Get a Vehicle History Report via the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System or other available vehicle information resources.Look for odometer discrepancies.Visit the US Department of Justice\u2019s National\u00a0Motor Vehicle Title Information System website<\/a> for\u00a0accurate information about a vehicle\u2019s title, odometer data, and certain damage history. The report costs $4.Could the vehicle be a flood vehicle? Visit the National Insurance Crime Bureau\u00a0website <\/a>to access a free database that includes flood damage and other informationBe cautious about buying a vehicle locally with out-of-state titles or a car being sold with a New York State title that has out-of-state inspection stickers, plates, or temporary paper plates.<\/p>\n Visit the Federal Trade Commission website<\/a>\u00a0for more\u00a0used car buying tips.<\/p>\n Finally, the NYS DMV notes that if, unfortunately, your vehicle is stolen,\u00a0report it to\u00a0local police and your auto insurance company as soon as possible. The theft will be noted on your vehicle title record to help prevent someone from selling the vehicle or applying for a title.<\/p>\n For more details on keeping your vehicle safe, visit the website<\/a> of New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.<\/p>\n From snow-in-a-can to disco ball ornaments, childhood Christmases were pure magic\u2014and filled with buckets of glitter. Did your favorite holiday decorations make the list?<\/p>\n Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz<\/a><\/p>\n![\"WNBF](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ny\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/1761131708_685_attachment-900.jpg\")
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