By Charlene Gatt
THE RACV is warning drivers in the West to watch where they park.
The latest RACV Insurance claims data shows that Footscray, St Albans, Williamstown and Essendon accounted for 8.7 per cent of all malicious damage claims over the 2010-11 financial year.
Further out West, Hoppers Crossing, Point Cook and Melton made up 3.7 per cent of claims.
The data shows there were more than 1300 malicious damage incidents across the state in the past 12 months, with the average claim costing $2690.
Malicious incidents included vehicles being broken into, keyed and scratched, and windows being smashed. Incidents of roof denting caused by people jumping on cars were also reported.
The RACV claims data also showed that 57 per cent of malicious damage incidents occurred during the day.
RACV Acting General Manager Bob McGuinness said the claims data showed that drivers needed to take precautions when leaving their cars unattended.
Mr McGuinness said drivers could reduce the likelihood of car vandalism by avoiding places that would-be car thieves or vandals were likely to strike, such as railway station and shopping 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.
“This finding should act as a clear reminder to motorists that vandals can strike at any time, so it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure their vehicle isn’t a target.”
