So, imagine this: you’re walking to your car, keys ready, excited to drive. But as you get closer, something feels wrong. Your key won’t turn in the lock and you can’t figure out what’s going on.
Well, my friend, it’s possible that you’ve fallen for a sneaky trick used by car thieves involving a simple penny (But remember that this might not be the case at all and everything could be just fine!).
The Sneaky Penny Trick: A Car Thief’s Favorite Tool
Car thieves have many tricks up their sleeves, and one of the oldest involves using a lowly penny or nickel. These sneaky people slide this small piece of change into the passenger side door handle. Sounds strange right? But it might actually work better than you’d expect.
Why Target the Passenger Side Door Handle?
You may wonder why these thieves focus on the passenger side door handle specifically. Here’s how it goes: when you try to use your key for central locking, it won’t function properly because that penny has jammed up the passenger door! It acts like a tiny roadblock stopping you from locking your vehicle correctly.
The Thief’s Plan: Hiding in Wait
Now here comes where things get even sneakier! Car thieves aren’t just about quick grabs; they have a more devious plan in mind. While you’re struggling with your key and unable to enter your car, they might be lurking nearby waiting for you to give up or become distracted.
Caution: What Should You Do?
So what should you do if something seems off with your car door? First off stay calm! Panicking won’t help at all! Instead follow these steps to outsmart any potential thief:
Check The Passenger Door Handle: If your key isn’t turning check out that passenger side door handle closely for any foreign objects like that sneaky penny which could be blocking things.
Stay Aware: Keep an eye on what’s around you; if anything feels weird trust those instincts! You can always ask someone for help or call someone over if you’re feeling uneasy.
Avoid Going Back To The Car Right Away: If getting into your car is impossible don’t rush back immediately instead look for well-lit areas with people around and call for help since thieves are more likely to strike when you’re alone or distracted.
Contact Authorities If Needed: If there’s evidence of tampering or if someone seems suspicious call police right away so they can take care of things!
Think About An Anti-Theft System Too!: To keep those pesky thieves away consider investing in an anti-theft system or steering wheel lock as extra security measures make vehicles less appealing targets.
Not Everyone Believes It:
It’s worth noting not everyone thinks having a coin on their car door means trouble is coming! Some folks may choose caution while others see this idea as just another myth without basis.
Precautionary Measures:
Whether or not you’re convinced about coins being bad luck it’s always smart to stay careful regarding vehicle safety—lock doors park in bright places & think about adding extra security like alarms!
While stories about coins on handles continue circulating it’s important approach them skeptically—it doesn’t mean every time there’s one there will definitely be theft involved; sometimes forgetfulness happens too!
In conclusion staying alert & taking steps proactively protects cars wisely no matter what myths float around!