Motorists warned to watch out for thieves targeting vehicles left to defrost

Motor insurance policies may exclude theft where keys are left in the ignition, the Association of British Insurers said.

Vicky Shaw
Monday 15 January 2024 11:17 GMT
The Association of British Insurers is warning motorists not to leave vehicles unattended while they defrost with the keys in the ignition (Alamy/PA)
The Association of British Insurers is warning motorists not to leave vehicles unattended while they defrost with the keys in the ignition (Alamy/PA)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Motorists are being warned they may not be covered if their vehicle is stolen while being left unattended to defrost with the keys in the ignition.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) said motor insurance policies may exclude theft where keys are left in the ignition, and all will expect policyholders to take reasonable care.

It is always safer to brave the cold for a short while, than risk your vehicle being stolen

Jonathan Fong, ABI

The exact terms and conditions of individual policies vary.

The association said people should not leave their vehicle unattended, even for just a minute, with the keys in the ignition while it defrosts.

Jonathan Fong, manager, general insurance policy at the ABI said: “While it might be very tempting to stay in the warm while your vehicle defrosts, leaving your vehicle unattended is an open opportunity for thieves looking for easy targets in freezing temperatures.

“It is always safer to brave the cold for a short while, than risk your vehicle being stolen.”

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in