By CASEY NEILL
GREATER Dandenong has the highest vehicle vandalism bill in the state, new RACV figures show.
Insurance data revealed 23 malicious damage incidents in the municipality between 1 January and 31 December last year, with payouts totalling $99,532.
Greater Dandenong had the fifth highest number of incidents in the state.
Neighbouring Casey topping the tally with 36, but its damage bill was lower at $95,578.
The incidents included vandals breaking into vehicles, smashing windows, keying or scratching and denting bonnets or car roofs.
RACV insurance general manager Paul Northey said it could be difficult to stop a determined vandal, but motorists could take steps to protect their vehicle.
“One of the best preventative steps to protect your vehicle is to park off the street in a secure garage but if you have to park on the street, do so in a well-lit, busy location,” he said.
Mr Northey said global positioning system (GPS) devices were growing in popularity and were a lucrative target for thieves.
“Leaving your GPS holder fixed to the windscreen or iPod charger plugged in is like leaving your wallet on the dashboard,” he said.
“Always remove the GPS from display, as well as the support bracket and suction pads if possible.”
He said data showed that most attacks occurred between 6am and noon.
“Many people assume night is the danger time for damage to be inflicted but the evidence shows that vandals can strike at any time, so we encourage motorists to identify safe places to park at all times,” he said.
“Take your valuables and accessories out of the car, make sure your windows are up and lock your vehicle.”
