December, January and February are statistically the worst months for vehicle thefts in Washoe County, according to a four-year analysis done by the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office.

Based on this analysis, the sheriff’s office predicts an increase in vehicle thefts in the coming months unless steps are taken by the public to help reverse this trend.

The sheriff’s office believes that the increase in motor vehicle thefts during periods of colder temperatures is primarily due to the number of vehicles that are left unattended while warming up. Auto thieves are aware of this practice and look for opportunities to take advantage of it.

Vehicle owners can help take away this opportunity by never leaving their vehicles unattended while the vehicle is running.

According to the Nevada Division of Insurance, many drivers are not aware that their auto insurance policy may not cover vehicle theft or damage to the vehicle caused by wind, fire, flood, a falling object, or vandalism. Comprehensive coverage can help protect consumers from incidents other than those caused by a collision.