Auto Windscreens has seen a 50% reduction in body glass claims since 2011 due to falling levels of theft from vehicles.

The reduction in thefts from vehicles is likely due to improved vehicle security, more in-built navigation systems and increased awareness among drivers of security risks

The reduction is in line with latest crime figures from The Office for National Statistics (ONS), which show thefts from vehicles have become less frequent, reducing from 1,171,000 in 2011 to 728,000 in 2022; a 38% decline. ONS data also shows that when incidents do occur, it’s exterior fittings, such as hub caps, wheel trims or number plates, which are now the most frequently stolen items, as opposed to car stereos, which were a primate target in the 1990s. An ONS report from 2017 also found that vehicle-related thefts have decreased from almost half of incidents in March 2006 to 23% in March 2016.

Auto Windscreens said the reduction in thefts from vehicles was likely due to improved vehicle security, more in-built navigation systems and increased awareness among drivers to not leave any personal possessions in view of potential thieves.

James Reynolds, commercial and sales director, said: “Interestingly, our data also mirrors the ONS stats, with the average proportion of break-ins decreasing by 17% this year compared to 2016/2019. This shows the cost-of-living crisis hasn’t resulted in a spike in vehicle offences and whilst it’s too early to say it’s a trend, it is positive news for vehicle owners and insurers alike.”

Reynolds added: “Body glass claims now make up a small percentage of our work. The good news for insurers is that these claims have been reducing year-on-year which is helping to reduce overall claims costs. When we do see these type of claims, two of the most common reasons are break-ins or vandalism, and unsurprisingly the majority are during November and December, when the clocks have gone back and days become shorter.”