By ALESHA CAPONE
WYNDHAM and Melton have been named as car theft hotspots, in new statistics released by the RACV.
Insurance claim data from the company showed Wyndham recorded the fifth-highest rate of car thefts last year, out of more than 35 Victorian regions.
Hume was equal fifth on the car theft list, along with Greater Geelong.
The RACV report named Werribee, Hoppers Crossing and Wyndham Vale as Wyndham’s top spots for car thieves to operate in.
The statistics also named Melbourne’s West, including Laverton, Taylors Lakes and Sunshine, as the top car theft hotspot within the state, accounting for 12 per cent of insurance claims made for stolen vehicles.
RACV’s general manager of insurance, Paul Northey, said motorists needed to be take precautions to prevent their cars being stolen.
“Thieves will strike anywhere at any time, so it is important to be vigilant at all times and think carefully about where you leave your car,” Mr Northey said.
“If possible, park in a secure area that is well-lit at night. Make sure you always lock all doors and windows and remove any personal valuables from the car or hide them from view.
“Be particularly aware of locations where cars are more likely to be targeted such as train stations, shopping centres and on the side of the road.”
The Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon were the cars most commonly stolen last year, accounting for 26 per cent of all insurance claims.
Mr Northey said models like the Toyota Camry, Toyota Corolla, Ford Laser and Nissan Pulsar were also targeted by thieves.
The RACV’s data also showed 34 per cent of vehicles were stolen in daylight hours, between 6am and midday.
