Warning issued to drivers as 'car cannibalism' cases surge in UK
British motorists have been issued a warning following a rise in so-called 'car cannibalism '.
Parked cars have been targeted for parts amid an increase in illegal 'chop shops', where stolen vehicle components are sold on the black market. The theft of parking sensors quadrupled from 2023 to 2024, according to claims data from Admiral Insurance, and parts like steering wheels also became a target for thieves.
Motorists can protect their vehicles by keeping it out of sight in a garage. For long stays, private car parks and garages are the safest as they are usually locked and have CCTV or other security measures in place. It comes after mindless yobs damage 41 cars in vandalism rampage through sleepy market town.
READ MORE: Mindless yobs damage 41 cars in vandalism rampage through sleepy market town
There are other ways a person can protect their vehicle if they don't have access to a garage. A well-lit area that has a significant footfall could deter thieves and people should always park their car in a safe area, even when parking for short durations.
Motorists could also park their vehicles facing a wall, since many of the parts being stolen are from the front of the vehicle. Drivers should ensure that their vehicle is locked and take their keys with them. This is both safer and important because car insurance premiums won't pay out if a car was not properly secured before it was stolen.
People are unlikely to ever recover their car parts if they are stolen but marking them can make it easier for the police to identify, so some could get their stolen parts back. In some cases, marked parts can be a deterrent if the thief notices the marking, as they'll be more reluctant to steal a part that can be traced. People buying the parts may also realise they have been stolen if they're marked, and if so, they may be more likely to contact the police, Birmingham Live reported.
Mark Barclay, Head of Ecommerce at My Motor World, comments: 'Like grand theft auto, car cannibalism is another big worry for car owners. Because the parts that are stolen are so hard to retrieve and are of comparatively little value, it's very unlikely you'll get them back.
"Taking precautions against theft and ensuring you have insurance are the best ways to protect your car from cannibalism.
'You may find it useful to keep a supply of spares in your home or a secure garage, particularly for parts like lights. If your vehicle is cannibalised, you can then quickly install a new part and be back on the road in no time.'
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Also, for some, it increases the risk of theft as you could have tools or equipment stored inside. 4. Football flags Football team pride is very strong in the UK, and with football car flags selling for as little as 50p, the temptation to represent your team can be overwhelming. However, they carry the risk of up to a whopping £2,500 penalty. Placement matters for flags, where if they are insecure, they risk an on-the-spot fine or court appearance, or if they obstruct vision, they also carry fine risks. They can even increase the chances of vandalism and theft, all of which are likely to warrant a driver to make an insurance claim. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. 5. Dashboard ornaments and decorations Dashboard ornaments from bobbleheads to Jellycats often cause risks from insecure fixing, to vision obstructions or distractions, all of which would lead to an accident. Other dashboard decor, such as bedazzling dashboards, could exacerbate injury if airbags deploy. 6. Seasonal decorations From spare wheel covers, number plate decals, to battery-powered Christmas lights or mini Christmas trees, seasonal accessories often spark joy for drivers and pedestrians. However, these decorations can cause distractions for yourself and other drivers, as well as be fire hazards. 7. Steering wheel, gear shift and handbrake covers Although they may increase visual impact or even comfort for the driver, adorning your car with covers, which is becoming an increasingly popular trend on TikTok, such as on the steering wheel, could result in up to 11 points on your licence. If you lose control of your vehicle due to the cover, it could be deemed as dangerous driving, and if you need to claim, it may be rejected. Article continues below
