By Alesha Capone
RACV insurance claims have revealed vehicles parked in St Albans, Footscray and Williamstown recorded high rates of malicious damage inflicted by vandals, across the past year.
Figures from the insurer placed the western suburbs third-highest in the state for claims relating to malicious damage, out of more than 1300 incidents reported in Victoria during the last 12 months.
Melton and Wyndham were eighth on the list, where malicious damage hot spots included Hoppers Crossing and Point Cook.
Malicious incidents included vehicles being broken into, keyed and scratched, windows getting smashed and roof dents caused by people jumping on cars.
RACV Insurance Acting General Manager, Bob McGuinness, said drivers could reduce the likelihood of malicious damage by avoiding parking in places where vandals often struck, such as railway stations and shopping centre car parks.
“Malicious damage claims lodged with RACV were most often a result of vandals intentionally damaging vehicles or would-be thieves attempting to steal vehicles,” Mr McGuinness said.
“While malicious damage can happen at any time and place, taking preventative measures like parking in a well lit and frequented car park with clearly defined parking spaces, and where possible, a car park with security cameras or guards, can reduce the risk of malicious damage.”
The RACV data also showed that 50 per cent of malicious damage incidents occurred between 6am and 6pm.
