More than 130 Queensland drivers a week return to find their car deliberately scratched or smashed, according to new research released today by NRMA Insurance.
NRMA Insurance claims research indicates vandals damage around 7,000 cars each year in Queensland, leaving drivers furious, frustrated, inconvenienced and potentially out of pocket.
NRMA Insurance Motor and Home Sales Manager Frank Adler said malicious damage to cars was a senseless crime that cost more than $7.5 million in repairs in the state each year.
"We regularly see cases of smashed windows, stolen badges, broken mirrors and key scratches, at an average cost of more than $1,000 to repair, so it's important drivers have the right insurance cover," he said.
"One unlucky owner of a luxury vehicle returned to their car to find thieves had caused $80,000 worth of damage."
NRMA Insurance also revealed the most common areas in the state for vandalism to cars were inner-city Brisbane and the CBD, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts' beach suburbs and Brisbane's western fringes.
"Vandals tend to target areas where cars are parked in the street or where they know drivers will be leaving their cars unattended for a long time, such as the beach and commuter car parks," Mr Adler said.
"Many vandals also travel out of their own neighbourhood looking for thrills at other people's expense, often out of boredom."
NRMA Insurance encouraged motorists to check their insurance covers them for minor damage.
"We know many car owners agree with their insurer to pay a higher than average excess, believing that they won't need to make a claim," Mr Adler said.
"But minor damage, dents and scratches by vandals is common and could see you paying for the repairs yourself, rather than making an insurance claim, because of hefty excess fees."
To help reduce the risk of your car being damaged by vandals:
- park off the street in a garage or secure area;
- if parking in a car park or on the street, park in a well-lit area and visible to passers-by;
- always ensure your car is locked and that the windows are up;
- remove any valuables from inside the car, especially portable GPS units and their mounting brackets; and
- report suspicious activity to police.
