The Safest Places to Park Your Car

Best Parking Security Tips for Drivers 

One of the questions your motor insurer always asks is where your vehicle is parked during the day and overnight. It is always best to answer this question as honestly as you can because it can, like other things, affect your insurance premium. This is because when you take steps to keep your car safe at all times, they know you are a responsible driver and will quote you accordingly.

Where to park for safety

If you have a secure garage at or near your home address then rather than fill it with detritus, use it for what it was intended for and park your car in it! With the addition of strong, secure locks and an alarm system this is by far the best way to keep your car safe at home. As added protection, a professionally supplied and fitted GPS tracker will not only be beneficial for your insurance premium. It can ensure swift retrieval of your car should the worst happen.
An added bonus of being able to park in your own garage is that this provides essential protection for your car from the weather, essential during the winter months when it snows. It can help to protect your battery from cold temperatures and your car’s paintwork from damage by sun exposure.
If you don’t have a garage the next best option is your driveway or at the front of your house, preferably in front of a window so you have sight of the car at all times. Consider fitting security cameras or motion sensor lights, which can alert you to any movement of the car. A GPS tracker is a very effective option as it can send an instant alert directly to your mobile phone or other device.

But what about when you’re away from home? 

The first rule wherever you decide to park your car is this – do not leave valuables such as bags, laptops or coats on show. Either take them with you or lock them away in the boot, or at the very least try to place them under a seat.
When you’re in a town or city always choose the safest and most well-run car park you can find. These are often municipal or private car parks which have CCTV systems and entry and exit barriers. If you can find a car park with an attendant in place, so much the better.
If you are unable to find a decent car park try to park near other cars or houses. Be aware that a solitary car parked all by itself in a quiet backstreet or corner of an unoccupied area will always be a tempting target for opportunistic thieves, whereas parking on a busy road or street can be safer.
At night, always park in a well-lit area to deter car thieves. If your car is fitted with a GPS tracker make it obvious by placing stickers inside the car windows. Add as much security as you can such as wheel clamps, steering wheel locks and an alarm/immobiliser system. Wherever you choose to park, having as many security features on your car will not only deter thieves, but will also have a favourable impact on your insurance premiums.
Finally, if you have to park on-street in a city or town, be aware of local legislation or parking restrictions which could attract a fine or even towing away. By parking sensibly with security in mind, not only will your car always be exactly where you left it but your efforts will likely be reflected in lower insurance premiums.