NCJ Number
87200
Date Published
Unknown
Length
35 pages
Annotation
This report discusses the auto theft problem and reviews legislative initiatives in various States to combat it. It offers a five-point plan of action for insurance industry's efforts.
Abstract
Auto theft is a growing problem, not because the theft rate has been increasing (it has declined), but because insurance costs for theft have risen. Most State laws have been unsuccessful, and one in particular -- the salvage title law -- has caused insurance costs to rise. The insurance industry should institute model and territorial rating of auto theft coverage, and should offer competitive discounts for effective antitheft devices. Insurers should actively lobby for better State laws and should seek export controls and revisions of racketeering statutes. Finally, insurers should use preinsurance vehicle inspection and special investigative units with discretion. Theft data are included. (Author summary modified)