Vehicle theft is surging across the U.S., with the average rate of motor vehicle theft rates increasing by 105% between 2019 and 2023, according to The Council on Criminal Justice. This sharp increase in car thefts has led to a rise in insurance claims and growing concerns for both policyholders and insurers.

As thefts become more frequent and sophisticated, independent agents play a crucial role in helping clients understand their risks and ensuring they have adequate coverage. Here are four ways agents can provide valuable guidance and build stronger client relationships:

1) Understand auto theft trends. Auto theft claims issued through independent agents in the Northeast U.S. were up 15% year over year in 2023, according to data from Plymouth Rock Assurance. This trend is evident across multiple states, including New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.

For agents, understanding which cars are most at risk is critical in advising clients on coverage and risk mitigation strategies. Plymouth Rock data reveals that the most frequently targeted vehicles include Hondas, Toyotas and Hyundais. While luxury cars are often assumed to be the primary targets, high-demand models with easily resold parts also attract thieves.

In particular, Hyundai and Kia vehicles have faced security vulnerabilities, leading to a wave of thefts inspired by viral social media videos. In response to multiple lawsuits, the automakers agreed to a $200 million settlement in 2023.

2) Explain the impact on insurance claims and premiums. With theft rates and insurance claims for stolen vehicles rising, insurers are reassessing premiums based on theft-risk factors, such as vehicle make, model and geographic location.

For policyholders in high-theft areas, premiums may increase to reflect the higher likelihood of a claim. Additionally, repeat theft incidents can lead to further premium hikes or policy adjustments. Independent agents can proactively educate clients on these factors and discuss whether comprehensive coverage—which includes theft protection—is the right choice for their situation.

3) Share risk mitigation tips. Beyond securing the right coverage, independent agents can help clients minimize their risk of theft through proactive education. Encouraging clients to adopt theft prevention measures not only protects their assets but could also qualify them for discounts. Many insurers offer discounts for theft-prevention features, such as transponder keys, alarms and automatic locking systems. Agents should be aware of these options and help clients maximize their savings.

Here are four tips to help customers prevent auto theft:

• Secure your vehicle. Always lock doors, close windows and park in well-lit areas or secure garages.
• Protect your keys. Never leave key fobs inside the car and consider using a signal-blocking pouch to prevent a relay attack, which is when a bad actor intercepts communication between two devices and relays it to another device, according to Comparitech.
• Invest in theft-prevention devices. Steering wheel locks, brake locks and GPS tracking systems can deter thieves and help recover stolen vehicles.
• Utilize security technology. Motion-sensing lights, surveillance cameras and alarm systems provide additional layers of protection, especially for those with garages or driveways.

4) Engage with clients proactively. Agents should stay informed about local theft trends and vehicle model vulnerabilities. Regularly updating clients about these risks—through newsletters, social media or one-on-one consultations—reinforces the agent's role as a trusted advisor. Additionally, discussing vehicle security before, during and after the car-buying process ensures clients make informed decisions about both their vehicle selection and insurance coverage.

Louis Palomeque is vice president of claims at Plymouth Rock Assurance.