Report a Lost or Stolen Vehicle
Truck theft is not as uncommon as many people might think. As an owner operator, or any kind of professional driver, stolen or reported vehicles could mean the end of your career. To ensure the safety of your big rig, take a few precautionary steps the next time you are out on the road, and hopefully you can prevent truck theft in the process.
- Never leave your vehicle running. On the road, it is necessary to make a few pit stops. However, make sure your vehicle is completely off when you take a bathroom break or stop for some food. In a flash, your vehicle could be taken away, and you would be left stranded. Always turn off the engine, even when you are nearby.
- Lock the doors at all times. Truck theft cannot be completely prevented by locking your doors, but making sure that your vehicle is secure could make a thief think twice before trying to steal your big rig. Lock your doors, even while you are pumping gas, so it is much more difficult for someone to get inside.
- Filter your radio transactions. In order to avoid a lost or stolen vehicle, it is important to pay attention to the calls you make via radio. You never know who might be listening to your calls, and giving away your position might make you an easy target. Save the chit chat for your Bluetooth, and keep the temptation away from potential thieves.
- Avoid isolated areas. Even if you follow the necessary steps to prevent truck theft, you still might be at risk if you park in an isolated area. Avoid areas on the road that are not lit, or those that are not near any major public areas. If you must stop, try to find a populated area where a thief could be easily spotted.
- Hide your valuables. If you take any expensive items with you on your drives, make sure that those stay hidden whenever you stop. Hide small items underneath your seat or in your center console. Larger items can be hidden with large blankets or boxes. By taking these valuables out of plain site, potential thieves will be less tempted to break in and possibly steal your vehicle or belongings.
If you need to report a stolen or missing vehicle, contact Crossroads Leasing & Finance, LLC here.