It never hurts to play safe. This is especially true when it comes to your vehicle.
Most Americans consider a car a necessity. And this idea has probably been strengthened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Most people prefer driving their own vehicles over public transportation. They’d rather drive themselves around to avoid being in big crowds during a commute. This means they can keep themselves safer and be more socially distant from others. Owning a vehicle is also very convenient. You can go anywhere, anytime.
But financially, owning a vehicle is a huge deal. You have to pay for your car mortgage and insurance. And depending on how meticulous you are with your vehicle, you’ll also have to pay for regular maintenance and cleaning.
Given the importance of your vehicle, you need to do what it takes to keep it safe. And that means buying some safety gadgets. Below is a list of gadgets you need to add to your vehicle to ensure its safety and ease your mind.
Dashboard Camera
One of the most valuable gadgets you need to have in your vehicle is a dashboard camera. In a car, this gadget is usually attached to the rearview mirror. In a motorcycle, a dashcam is often mounted on the front of the motorcycle or even on the handle using a clamp.
This gadget can be useful in defending yourself. If you ever get involved in a road dispute or an accident, the dashcam will provide evidence should you need it. You can use the video footage to defend yourself in court if needed or to avail motorist insurance claims.
In addition, many people intentionally put themselves in harm’s way on the road to receive compensation. So the video footage in your dashcam can also help you avoid falling victim to such a scheme.
Unfortunately, some states don’t allow dashcams or other gadgets that obstruct the windshield. So before you buy a dashcam, make sure that it’s legally allowed where you are.
GPS Tracker
If you have a vehicle, you need to install a GPS tracker in it. This gadget will be helpful to you in many ways.
A tracker is often installed in the OBD port of a car. For motorcycles, an adapter might be needed. Then you need to install the mobile app partnered with the tracker you purchase. You can monitor your car’s location through the app. If someone tries to steal your car, you can easily track it through the app for retrieval.
This gadget will also give you some assurance when someone else uses your vehicle. The app will help you keep watch of its location so that you know when it leaves your premises and when it’s returned.
Steering Wheel Lock
According to the FBI, there were around 721,885 motor vehicle thefts recorded in the U.S. in 2019. This number is not something to ignore. And during the pandemic, some states saw a rise in car theft.
One gadget to use to avoid falling victim to car theft is a steering wheel lock. It’s basically what its name states. You put the lock on the steering wheel, tighten the fit, and lock it with a key. Even if thieves can jam your car doors open, the steering wheel lock will hinder them from taking your car anywhere. This device can also buy you some time to call the cops.
Security Tire Clamp
If you already have a steering wheel lock, it might seem overboard to get a tire clamp. But it’s still a great gadget to have to keep your car secure. Wheel clamps immobilize your vehicle, so they make effective gadgets to deter theft. And if you park your car on a slope, the clamps will provide additional security to your car.
The drawback of this gadget is that it can be time-consuming. You’ll have to put it on your wheel when you leave your vehicle in a parking lot and then remove it when you come back. Still, it’s a gadget that’s convenient to have and can be helpful in several situations. For example, say you’re leaving your car at home for a few days while you go out of town or travel. In this case, a security tire clamp will be handy and will assure you that your car will remain safe at home.
As a vehicle owner, you have a certain responsibility to keep your car safe. And buying some safety gadgets will definitely help you do this.
