These Cities Had The Most Vehicles Stolen During The Pandemic: Is Yours On The List?

Car thefts have been on the rise nationwide during the pandemic, according to a new report released by the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

According to the report, one vehicle was stolen every 36 seconds in 2020 for a total of 880,595 auto thefts nationwide during the year, up from 794,019 in 2019.

The region of the country that had the highest rate of vehicle theft during 2020 was Washington, D.C., according to the NICB report.

States that also saw the high rates of autos stolen in 2020 included Colorado, California, Missouri, and New Mexico, respectively. These states were trailed by Oregon, Oklahoma, Washington, Nevada, and Kansas.

In Colorado, car thefts increased from 21,299 in 2019 to 29,169 vehicles stolen in 2020, with 7,000 more vehicle thefts occurring in the city of Denver.

California has also seen a sizable number of vehicles stolen during the pandemic, with 187,094 total auto thefts in the state last year. Texas had 93,521 thefts in 2020 while Florida, which did not top the NICB’s list, had 44,940 vehicle thefts for the year.

According to the organization, California, Texas, and Florida combined account for 37% of the U.S.’ total auto thefts.

The NICB report also looked at which metropolitan area in the U.S. suffered the most auto thefts, with Bakersfield, California, topping the list with the most cars stolen, followed by Yuba City, California; Denver; Odessa, Texas; and San Francisco.

“Auto thefts saw a dramatic increase in 2020 versus 2019 in part due to the pandemic, an economic downturn, law enforcement realignment, depleted social and schooling programs, and, in still too many cases, owner complacency,” David Glawe, president and CEO of the NICB, said in a statement.

The NICB recommends using common sense to protect against auto theft.

Implementing protections such as removing keys from the ignition, locking doors and windows, and parking in well-lit areas can go a long way in preventing auto crimes. The organization also recommends installing warning systems that are visible and audible, immobilization devices, and tracking devices on vehicles.

“For many people, a car is the second-largest investment they will ever make behind a home. As such, it is important to take simple steps to protect your investment – lock your car and take your keys, no matter where you live,” Glawe added.