Industry News from Yes Insurance

Commuters travelling from Highgate tube station in London are being targeted by opportunistic thieves who break in to their cars while the drivers are at work, according to the Hornsey and Crouch End Journal.

Motorists are being advised to avoid parking on or near Northwood Road, Langdon Park Road and Holmesdale Road as these are the current 'hotspots' for the opportunistic criminals.

Thefts from motor vehicles in the area have risen almost 43 per cent during this year, compared to the numbers of car-related thefts and break-ins reported in 2005.

PC Darren Warren, of Highgate Safer Neighbourhood Team, told the paper: "It's not well-lit and it backs onto Parkland Walk and the woods, which can be used by criminals for access on moped or bicycles.

"They know people are not going to be there all day and into the night because they're in the City."

He also said that motorists were doing themselves no favours by leaving valuable items like lap tops, mobile phones and briefcases clearly on display in their vehicles.

Police have been patrolling the area in unmarked cars, but are also appealing to the local public to aid their efforts by not leaving valuable items on show, always locking vehicles, using garages if available and activating any security devices.

Break-ins can be a costly affair for motorists, not just because of the expense at having to replace all the stolen items, but also because in most cases it can affect your car insurance.

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