Unfortunately, this kind of incident is more common than you might think. In 2014 alone, law enforcement agencies across the country recorded over 1.17 million cases of vehicle break-ins. On average, each incident resulted in around $835 in losses, not including the value of stolen parts like hubcaps, mirrors, radios, or even engine components—adding another $553 per case. It's a costly and frustrating experience, especially when everything you did seemed right. Even with all the precautions, there’s still a chance you could be targeted. If it happens to you, here’s what you should do next: The first thing to do is call the police. An officer will come to investigate and help you file an official report. While waiting, take clear photos of the damage—broken windows, open doors, missing items—but don’t touch anything or move things around. Your car is now a crime scene, and preserving evidence is important for both the investigation and your insurance claim. Make sure you have your license, registration, insurance details, and a list of what was taken. If your license plate or electronic devices were stolen, be prepared to provide their numbers. This helps prevent issues like being held responsible for any tickets the thief might get, and it also aids in tracking down stolen electronics. If you left personal items in your car, there's a chance a thief may have taken your credit cards, phone, or other sensitive information. This can lead to identity theft if your social security number or address was exposed. As soon as possible, contact your bank to cancel your cards and freeze your accounts. Also, reach out to the major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your file. After handling the police and insurance, your car is still vulnerable. Many people try to cover broken windows with tape or cardboard, but experts suggest avoiding this. Instead, park your car in a secure location like a garage until repairs are complete. Leaving it on the street increases the risk of further damage or even vehicle theft. Once the initial steps are done, it's time to fix the damage. Depending on the extent of the break-in, your car may need:
Until these repairs are completed, your car remains an easy target for future thieves. Don't delay—get it fixed as soon as possible. Prevention is key. Here are some simple yet effective measures to keep your car safe:
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the chances of becoming a victim again. If you've recently experienced a car break-in, DaSilva’s Auto Body is here to help. From replacing broken glass to installing new parts, we offer comprehensive repair services. Contact our Naugatuck location today to schedule an appointment and get your car back on the road safely. round bar, Cold drawn round bar, carbon steel round bar Changzhou Chengxin Metal Products Co., Ltd , https://www.chengxinsteeltube.com
You think your car is parked in a safe place, but after you return from the store or a restaurant, you find that someone has smashed its windows and stolen some contents. You feel violated, helpless, and wonder, “How did this happen to me?â€1. Call the Police and Document the Scene
2. Secure Your Personal Information
3. Keep Your Car Safe Until Repairs Are Made
4. Get the Necessary Repairs Done
5. Take Steps to Prevent Future Break-Ins