Protect Your Car

According to the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), approximately 81 percent more car vandalism claims occur on October 31 than average. Help prevent slashed tires, smashed windows and deliberate car damage on Halloween — and every other day of the year — with these tips:

Check your surroundings

Where you park your car can affect its likelihood of being vandalized. At home, park in the garage. If you don't have a garage, install motion lights that will help deter vandals and alert you and neighbors to activity near your vehicle or driveway. Away from home, park in a well-lit, populated area — preferably a gated lot or secure parking garage. For added protection, park in a spot away from objects that could help conceal vandals, such as large vehicles, dumpsters or shrubbery.

Eliminate temptations

Remove valuables and any evidence of them from your vehicle. For example, clean GPS suction rings off your windshield, remove stereo faceplates and store cell phone chargers in the center console.

Bumper stickers also can tempt vandals. If someone doesn't agree with your expressed views, you may become the target of vandals.

Take extra security measures

Add an alarm system and/or surveillance cameras to your car to make it a less desirable target. If it's clear your vehicle has these, vandals may keep walking. Sometimes, simply having a security system decal on a window is enough to discourage them.

This message was brought to you by State Farm.