The summer heatwave has sparked a car crime spree across the UK that will leave insurers facing a hefty claims bill - more than half a million families have had their summer breaks ruined by car crooks, a new study shows.
Smash and grab thieves have spent the summer months targeting tourist attractions and leisure resorts. Two in five car crime attacks have been on families making the most of the school break with holidays or day trips.
The research, from car glass repair specialists Autoglass, also reveals that insurers will typically be left facing a bill of £356 for each attack.
Autoglass managing director Nigel Doggett said: "This has been a great summer for car crooks and a nightmare for insurers - when the weather is hot motorists are more likely to issue open invitations to thieves by leaving windows down and sunroofs open.
"If insurers want to cut claims, they must ask themselves what they can do to help motorists reduce their chances of becoming a car crime victim."
Six in ten (62%) motorists admit they are less vigilant about car crime - locking up, parking carefully or hiding possessions - when they're on days out or holidays.
