Texas Residents are Using GPS Tracking to Combat Car Robberies

Car robberies in broad daylight are angering Odessa, Texas residents. Their response has been to install GPS tracking devices in their cars. Police are happy because it makes it easier for them to find the cars and make arrests.

The GPS tracking device is not itself an anti-theft solution, but it helps after the car is taken. Vehicles that are stolen and don’t have GPS units are extremely difficult for the police to locate.

Many of the robberies have occurred on the weekends, five and six each weekend, according to police. For an area that isn’t a metropolis, that’s a lot of thefts.

Vehicle Recovery Systems

Several automakers have started installing them on vehicles, like GM’s OnStar. This system will actually slow the car down if the thief tries to lead police on a chase. Other models that have factory installed theft tracking include BMS Assist, Toyota Safety Connect, Lexus Enform and Mercedes-Benz TeleAid.

Other Ways To Protect Your Car

Besides using a GPS tracking device, insurance companies recommend six methods to safeguard your car and its valuables:

• Keep it locked, even when driving.
• Never leave your keys in the car when you park it.
• Never leave your car running when you aren’t in it.
• Keep valuables out of view from passersby.
• Avoid high crime areas.
• Have your car’s Vehicle Identification Number etched on each window.

Bikes Too

Though not a major problem in Odessa, bike thefts are on the rise across the country. This has led to the development and use of GPS tracking for bikes to help owners track down their bikes if they are stolen.

Each day thousands of bikes are reported stolen in the U.S. at a cost of over $200 million. Even bikes with locks can get taken, with thieves using tools to cut, hammer, pry and hack them off. The GPS devices don’t take the place of locks, but provide a chance to track it if it is stolen.

Most devices are able to send an SMS alert and upload tracking coordinates continuously. If the alarm wasn’t activated before the bike was stolen, many units turn on in response to an SMS message from the owner.

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