Motor insurance company Swinton have warned about the dangers of car crime this winter, and advised car owners to be extra vigilant in the winter months to avoid becoming a victim of theft . The insurer has recommended that drivers take action to stop themselves being targeted by thieves during the long winter nights, especially as, if motorists leave their car unlocked, this can invalidate a car insurance policy.

When Swinton recently carried out a survey of its online customers, it revealed that many people are not taking extra precautions in winter, with 32 per cent saying they do not park in a well-lit area, 24 per cent admitting that that they leave their engines running when they defrost their car windscreens, and another 72 per cent revealing they have left presents on the back seat of their car when they are out doing Christmas shopping.

All of these practices can increase your likelihood of becoming a victim of winter car crime, and the longer nights mean that thieves have greater opportunity to commit car theft.

Swinton have recommended that people take a few basic precautions to protect themselves, including concealing or removing all valuables from the car, and parking in well-lit areas.