Direct Line reports increased incidence of fuel theft

The credit crunch and the price of petrol mean thieves are going to new levels of desperation and stealing people's fuel.

We have all seen how easy it can be to siphon fuel from old cars with little more than a length of pipe, a bucket and strong pair of lungs, but new cars make the task a lot more difficult. Thieves are now resorting to drilling holes in expensive petrol tanks and draining the contents.

Four wheel drive cars are particularly attractive to thieves because of their large fuel tanks and the fact they have greater ground clearance making access to the fuel tank a lot easier. When full, many 4x4s can contain around £80 worth of unleaded petrol and £100 of diesel.

Maggie Game, Head of Car Insurance at Direct Line says;

"The increasing cost of fuel and the credit crunch mean thieves are going to new levels of desperation and stealing people's fuel. We are seeing claims for fuel theft which have caused significant amounts of damage to people's cars."

"Newer cars make traditional siphoning methods very difficult. Car thieves are now resorting to drilling holes in fuel tanks and draining the contents causing damage to expensive components."

"If you are a victim of fuel theft, get in touch with your insurer as soon as possible."

Tips for drivers;

• If possible, keep your car parked in a locked garage. If not, ensure it is located in a well lit area.
• If you fill your tank, remain vigilant. There may be someone watching the petrol station looking for cars which have been filled with fuel.
• If you have just left a petrol station, ensure no–one is following you.
• Check that your insurer will cover you for damage caused by fuel thieves. Your insurer will arrange for your car to be towed to an appropriate repairer.
• Do not try and make any repairs yourself, even if they are only intended to be temporary to enable you to drive the car to a repairer. Any repairs made to petrol tanks need to be conducted by a professional and fully tested before your car can return to the road.
• Contact police to report the theft and ensure your car is safe.

07 October 2008 © Moneyextra.com

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