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Your vehicle is more than transportation

Simple habits can cut your risk of auto theft—nearly half of stolen vehicles in Pennsylvania were left unlocked.

Published Aug 25, 2026, 11:24 AM EDT | Lehigh Crimewatch

When a vehicle is stolen, the consequences go beyond losing a car—Pennsylvanians rely on vehicles for work, school, medical appointments and errands, and victims face insurance costs, rental fees, missed work and paperwork. Steve Wheeler of the Pennsylvania Auto Theft Prevention Authority notes auto theft affects whole communities through higher insurance rates, greater law enforcement needs and use of stolen vehicles in other crimes; the authority reports nearly half of stolen vehicles in Pennsylvania were left unlocked. To reduce risk, lock your vehicle and take keys, remove or hide valuables, park in well-lit visible areas, never leave a vehicle running unattended, and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.