Devices can deter criminals and reduce auto insurance costs

Auto theft can translate into devastating consequence for owners. Taking appropriate precautions and installing simple devices can be enough to deter criminals and reduce auto insurance rates.

If a car doesn't already have an alarm, car owners would be wise to have one installed. Alarms can vary in cost, but even an inexpensive model can create enough of a commotion to stop a thief in his tracks.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau recommends that those who drive high-risk vehicles install devices that are highly visible to potential thieves. Steering wheel or brake pedal locks cost anywhere from $15 to $80 depending the on model. While wheel locks are a bit more expensive, at $80 to $200, they are also good deterrents, according to the NICB. If a criminal sees such devices on a car, he or she might not be willing to put in the extra effort to go after the vehicle.

Motorists interested in finding out how they can reduce their auto insurance costs should talk with their agent to determine which protective devices will yield the greatest discount on their auto insurance premiums.