Auto Thefts Drop to Pre-Pandemic Levels in 2024, NICB Reports

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports a significant reduction in automobile thefts in 2024, marking a return to pre-pandemic levels. Vehicle thefts decreased by 17% from the previous year, falling below one million for the first time since 2021, with 850,708 incidents recorded nationwide. This decline represents the largest annual drop in stolen vehicles in four decades, signaling a notable shift in theft trends.

The NICB identified the top five most targeted vehicle models in 2024: Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet Silverado, Honda Accord, and Kia Optima. The report highlights that thieves predominantly focus on vehicle parts rather than stealing cars intact. This trend has important implications for insurance underwriting and claims processing, affecting risk assessment and loss mitigation strategies within the auto insurance sector.