WASHINGTON, USA — According to the Auto Theft Task Force - Puget Sound, 31,011 vehicles have been stolen across Washington this year. In a Facebook post, the law enforcement agency highlighted Kia and Hyundai as cars vulnerable to theft.
For more than a year, KING 5 has reported on numerous cars being stolen. Some of them end up being used to commit crimes like crashing into smoke shops to steal products. Many of the stolen cars are Kias or Hyundais.
A TikTok Challenge has been blamed for the increase in thefts. Videos show how people can start cars with just a screwdriver and a USB cord. The cars, which date back to the 2011 models, lack theft immobilizers.
At the beginning of the year, Progressive and State Farm both announced they would not issue new policies to owners of Kias and Hyundais because of the increased risk of the cars being stolen. Allstate has followed suit.
On Monday, we shared a story about a Kia owner who had his 2019 Sorento stolen over the weekend. Tony, who prefers KING 5 not use his last name, said he bought the car in March and had no trouble transferring his policy. When it came time for renewal, however, Progressive informed him he could not renew the policy. Tony says he was able to get liability insurance, but not comprehensive coverage that would help him cover the cost of his car if it was stolen.
This ongoing problem is something the Washington state Office of the Insurance Commissioner is following closely. Andrew Davis is a policy analyst for the agency. He says Kia and Hyundai owners shouldn't be discouraged.
"We would strongly encourage consumers to talk to their local agent, and get a few quotes. There are still companies willing to provide coverage for these vehicles," Davis said. "The best tool consumers have to address the coverage and pricing concerns is to shop around."
If car owners do have trouble finding insurance coverage they want or can afford, Davis says there are still ways to get insured.
"Look into increasing your deductible, bundling your home and auto insurance and talking to your agent about special discounts," Davis said.