It’s a record of dubious distinction - a 1995 Plymouth Voyageur van has been stolen, or attempted stolen, six times over the last two years, according to Manitoba Public Insurance claims statistics.

The multiple thefts of this Plymouth van reinforce the message from Manitoba Public Insurance that auto theft could be prevented if the owner had taken a few seconds to protect their vehicle with an immobilizer, steering wheel locking device or other anti-theft options.

In an effort to better understand and prevent auto theft, Manitoba Public Insurance recently carried out a study of multiple claims. The data showed, that over a two-year span - from 2000-2002 - a total of 1,638 vehicles were stolen more than once, generating 3,528 auto theft claims.

“Our statistics clearly show that it doesn’t matter where you live or what you drive, the vehicle can be stolen,” said Marci Riel, Auto Crime Issue Specialist with Manitoba Public Insurance. “Auto theft is a crime of opportunity and unfortunately, many owners still don’t believe they could be a target.

“Our data clearly shows otherwise. It also demonstrates that even after being the target of auto theft, many Manitobans are still not taking the needed steps to protect themselves.”

Fortunately, many Manitobans are getting the message and taking action to reduce auto theft and protect their vehicles. For the first 11 months of 2002, auto theft in Winnipeg is down 9.2 per cent.

Enhanced public awareness of auto theft is partly responsible for reducing this crime. About 40,000 Manitobans have registered for the Combat Auto Theft program, administered by Manitoba Public Insurance in partnership with police agencies throughout the province.

In addition, nearly 50,000 Manitobans have purchased vehicles which are protected by anti theft devices that meet national standards and receive a discount on their auto insurance. This number also includes nearly 1,000 Manitobans who have purchased an aftermarket, immobilizer anti-theft device that meets the nationally recognized standard and receive a $40 yearly discount from Manitoba Public Insurance.

Last year auto theft cost Manitoba Public Insurance and its rate payers nearly $24-million. In addition to the economic costs, there was the human toll: eight people were killed and hundreds injured over the last two years as the result of auto theft.

Contact:
Brian Smiley/Twila Allen
Media Relations
Manitoba Public Insurance
(204) 985-7678/7300 or 1-888-554-9549 (toll-free in Manitoba)