Hotspots for car theft revealed

Recent data suggests that vehicle theft is on the rise in the UK. In fact, the number of cars, motorcycles, and vans being stolen is steadily increasing year-on-year – up by 33% in the first half of 2023, compared to 2022.

A Freedom of Information request sent to 36 police forces throughout the UK has now revealed the top 10 hotspots for vehicle theft across the country. It found that, surprisingly, London did not have the highest rate of thefts. In fact, it was Cleveland in the North East of England, with 12.67 vehicles stolen for every 1,000 registered. Essex featured number 8 on the list with a 4.72 vehicles stolen for every 1,000.

To add to drivers’ woes – particularly in those top 10 areas – the cost of insurance has hit a new record high. Motorists are now paying £924 on average, which is £338 more than 12 months ago. And it’s even worse for new drivers, with the average cost up by a whopping 89%, or £1,414. Premiums have now increased for eight straight quarters.

Aston spoke to vehicle security expert Turkan Sarica.

Photo by Olav Tvedt on Unsplash