How to Deal with Car Break-In Cases in Lower Merion?
The year 2024 witnessed a sudden surge in car break-in cases in Lower Merion Township. And with the continued increase in such cases, it is high time that you understand how to deal with such a stressful situation.
In this blog, we’ve explained some of the best tips that can help you take steps if your vehicle has been targeted.
What to Do if You Face a Car Break-in?
First of all, we understand how frustrating it might be for you if you face such a situation. So, here are some steps that you can try to follow-
- Take snaps and track the damage: Take pictures of your car and the surroundings. While taking the snaps, make sure that the damage is visible.
- Note down the missing items: Check thoroughly and see whether anything was taken. Also, don’t forget to write down the names of the missing items.
- Get it on record: Getting the case on record is one of the most crucial things to do. So, call up the Lower Merion Township police department and file a complaint immediately.
- Inform the insurance company: Another crucial step is to call your insurance company and inform them about the mishap.
Charges for Car Break-Ins
Car break-ins are classified under theft, burglary, and vandalism. And depending on the circumstance and the amount of valuables stolen, the charges might vary.
For instance, if the value of the stolen items amounts to below $50, it is considered a third-degree misdemeanor. The charges increase to a second-degree misdemeanor if the valuables are between $50- $200. And if the amount exceeds $200, it is considered a first-degree misdemeanor. And for repeat offenders, the charges can increase to a felony!
How to Prevent Car Break-Ins?
Now, let’s take a look at some of the best tips that might prevent you from facing car break-ins-
- Don’t forget to lock your car: It doesn’t matter whether you’re stepping out for a few minutes or for a couple of hours. Do not ever forget to lock your car. In fact, most break-ins happen because the vehicle was left unlocked!
- Don’t keep any valuables inside: Next, don’t keep any valuable items in your car while leaving your vehicle parked.
- Park in areas with high foot traffic: That’s a great parking hack that can surely help prevent break-ins effectively! While parking, choose a place with high foot traffic. Otherwise, you can also park in well-lit areas. Such places serve as quite a deterrent!
- Install security cameras at home: If you’re worried about break-ins, install security cameras in your garage.
What to do if you Witness a Car Break-In?
Honestly, if you witness a car break-in, there’s nothing much you can do! Just make sure to avoid any confrontation with the offender, as situations might turn south, and you may hurt yourself! Instead, go to a safe place and inform the cops immediately with as much information as possible.
Also, if you happen to be a victim of a break-in, report it to the police ASAP. This increases the chances of recovery of your valuables.
Other than that, if you need any help regarding legal assistance, you are always free to get in touch with us at Logue Law Group! Our Pittsburgh criminal lawyers will provide you with the necessary assistance in every way possible. Just call us at 412-387-6901 to get in touch today!