Good news for Arizona drivers, as auto thefts across the state decreased by 6.6% in 2023, according to the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (ATA). This follows a multi-year period of rising thefts in the state and comes in contrast to national figures that show auto theft continuing to increase.
Arizona’s falling vehicle theft rate
A total of 20,255 auto-theft incidents were reported across Arizona in 2023, according to the ATA. That figure is down from the 21,694 reported in 2022 and 20,637 reported in 2021.
The report also shows that, of the 20,255 vehicles reported stolen in 2023, 16,733 were recovered, leading to a recovery rate of 83%. This recovery rate should increase as additional vehicles, stolen in 2023, are recovered in 2024.
National car theft rates continue to skyrocket
Rates of motor vehicle theft continue to skyrocket nationally. A report from the Council on Criminal Justice finds that incidents of auto theft increased by 29% in 2023. And the theft rate was also 105% higher in 2023 than in 2019.
These figures come from the council’s Crime Trends in U.S. Cities: Year-End 2023 Update, which reviewed the rate of motor vehicle theft in 34 American cities.
The report points to the prevalence of theft among Kia and Hyundai vehicles not fitted with new safety features as helping to swing the upward trend. Chevrolet pickups are also a common target for thieves, according toresearch from Insurify.
Vehicle theft and car insurance
An area’s vehicle theft rate is one of many factors car insurance companies consider when setting rates. Locations with higher numbers of vehicle thefts typically see higher car insurance rates.
Generally, Arizona’s rates are on the lower end of the car insurance cost spectrum, Insurify data shows. The average annual cost of full coverage in Arizona is $1,941, compared to the national average of $2,238.
“The drop in vehicle thefts doesn’t necessarily mean Arizona drivers will see their car insurance rates fall,” says Cassie Sheets, a data journalist with Insurify. “But the lower theft rate could help offset potential increases driven by other factors, like increasing repair costs that drive up the cost of claims for insurers.”
What’s next?
While the downward slide in vehicle theft across Arizona is encouraging, ATA officials still caution residents should practice smart car safety habits. This includes parking in well-lit areas, locking car doors, and taking the keys whenever leaving the vehicle.
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