October focus IS on crime ICBC PAYS out hundreds of millions of dollars every year to settle claims resulting from crimes against vehicles. With crime being the focus of three different cam- paigns this month, it’s a good time to outline steps we can take to turn the tide against the crimi- nals that are pushing up the cost of insurance for everyone. October has been designated as CrimeStoppers Month and Crime Prevention Month. In addition, {CBC and participating police departments are kicking off “Lock It or Lose It.’’ INSURANCE CORPORATION OF BRITISH COLUMBIA AUTO TOPIC Many CrimeStoppers tips con- cern hit and run, theft, arson, vandalism: and fraudulent claims. Tips that help us recover stolen property or identify a fraudulent claim keep down the cost of - claims and thus the cosi of our auio insurance. Your comprehensive coverage pays for most crime-related losses, and ICBC paid out over $78 mil- lion in comprehensive insurance claims to the end of August. That’s a 38% increase over the same period in 1990 and could force up premiums for this coverage next year. While we need to help police and CrimeStoppers solve crimes we also must do a better job of securing our property, and that’s ou focus of ‘‘Lock It or Lose t. Campaign signs posted in park- ing areas are reminders that many thefts can be prevented simply by locking vehicles and removing valuables from sight. Putting them’ in the trunk is an option, but with the advent of trunk release swit- ches in the passenger compart- ment, a better solution is to take them into the house. Vandalism as wel] as thefts can be prevented by parking your vehicle in a secure location such as limited access garages or, con- versely, out where there’s lots of. traffic. Crooks can be easily frustrated by difficult access and they hate to have an audience. A reminder that you must have comprehensive insurance, am op- tional coverage you can buy from ICBC or private insurers, in order to be compensated for vandalisin or theft. It pays for manufactur- er’s original parts or accessories that are permanently attached to a vehicle. If you have installed an expen- sive stereo system or cellular tele- phone in your vehicle you wil! likely meed to purchase extra comprehensive coverage through whai is called an ‘“‘Excess Special Equipment Endorsement.’* In all cases, see your Autoplan agent for the best advise on the protection you need. PITCH-IN AND RECYCLE! CONSERVATIVE races LI CUTLASS CIERA SEDAN & WAGON ever ree mre oy, Reliable and durable, !t’s no wonder Ciera familles often keep the result of their inteltigent buying decisions for years. CUTLASS SUPRERIE | Designed by Oldsmobile on the Premise that “EVERYTHING” Fer the budget conscious, cheese from new, demonstrators, or early lease retumsi isn’t too much to ask for in a modem cari LS To CHOOSE FROM gl. B- (including two executive pampered demonstrators) oT ALL NEW DELTA 88 NEW FOR THIS YEAR Super charged 3800 engine in the Ninety. — Touring Sedan. : ERAL TRADE-INS No Down Peavment OAC, & SOCIAL»: CREDIT manacers : EXTENDED BR SERVICE HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. LEASE From $450 PER MONTH Pius iaxes, zero down, T.P. £27,000 60 mos. OAC.