Media Advisory: New York State Watch Your Car Program

ALBANY, NY (06/18/2007)(readMedia)-- WHAT: New York State Watch Your Car Program

WHEN: Tuesday, June 19, 2007

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.: Free public enrollment in “Watch Your Car Program.”

Car seat and booster seat check for proper installation.

WHERE: NYS DMV North Syracuse Office-Taft Rd.

WHO: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles

New York State Police

Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee

New York Anti Car Theft Association

CONTACT: (DMV) 518-473-7000

NOTES: THE MEDIA IS WELCOME AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND

The “Watch Your Car” Auto Theft Prevention Program of New York State offers two methods that will aid in deterring the theft of a vehicle.

1. A voluntary vehicle registration program: Owners sign a document stating their vehicles are not normally used between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. allowing for a stop if the vehicle is operated between those hours. Decals are affixed to the front and rear windows identifying the vehicle as participating in the program. If law enforcement sees the vehicle being driven anywhere in the U.S. during these hours, they may stop the vehicle and verify ownership. Owners can also give permission to have the vehicle stopped any time it is driven into Mexico or Canada or if it’s observed within the general proximity of an international port.

2. The VIN Etching Program: Vehicle owners can have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) acid etched onto each window. This is a deterrent against auto theft because the etched VIN number cannot be changed or altered without damaging the window. The owner of the vehicle may also receive a 2 - 5 % discount on their auto insurance premiums.

To register a vehicle with the “Watch Your Car” Program, the owner must present a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, and valid insurance card.

Staff will also be available to check car seats and booster seats to ensure they are properly installed in the vehicles. The new regulations for booster seats took effect on March 27, 2005, requiring children ages four through six to be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system while riding in vehicles.

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