So, picture this: you’re heading to your car, keys in hand, ready to hit the road. But as you approach, something seems off. Your key won’t turn in the lock, and you can’t figure out why. Well, my friend, you might have just fallen victim to a sneaky car thief trick involving a simple penny (But, we should also mention 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 are known for their bag of tricks, and one of the classics involves using a lowly penny or nickel. These sneaky individuals slide this tiny piece of change into the door handle of the passenger side. Sounds bizarre, right? But it might be more effective than you’d think.
Why the Passenger Side Door Handle?
You might wonder why car thieves target the passenger side door handle specifically. Well, here’s the deal: when you try to use your key for central locking, it won’t work. Why? Because that penny has jammed the passenger car door. It’s like a tiny roadblock preventing you from securing your vehicle properly.
The Thief’s Plan: Waiting in the Shadows
Now, here’s where it gets even trickier. Car thieves are not just about a quick snatch-and-grab operation. They’ve got a more sinister plan in mind. As you struggle with your key, unable to get into your car, the thief might be lurking nearby, hiding in the shadows, waiting for you to give up and head back to your car or become distracted.
source: Dmitri Ma/Shutterstock
Caution: What Should You Do?
So, what should you do if you suspect something fishy is going on with your car door? First, stay calm. Panic won’t help. Instead, follow these steps to outsmart the car thief:
Check the Passenger Car Door Handle: If your key isn’t turning, inspect the passenger side door handle. Look for any foreign objects, like that sneaky penny, which might be jamming the mechanism.
Stay Alert: Keep an eye on your surroundings. If something feels off, trust your instincts. You can always ask for help or call someone to meet you at your car if you’re uncomfortable.
Avoid Returning to the Car: If you can’t get your door open, don’t head back to the car immediately. Instead, look for a well-lit, populated area and call for assistance. Car thieves are more likely to strike when you’re alone or distracted.
Contact the Authorities: If you find evidence of tampering or believe someone is trying to steal your car, call the police immediately. They can handle the situation and keep you safe.
Consider an Anti-Theft System: To deter car thieves in the first place, invest in an anti-theft system or steering wheel lock. These extra layers of security can make your vehicle less appealing to would-be thieves.
Not Everyone Believes It:
It’s important to note that not everyone subscribes to the notion that a coin on the car door handle is a sign of impending car theft. While some people may be cautious and choose to investigate further, others dismiss this idea as an unfounded myth.
Precautionary Measures:
Whether or not you buy into the coin-on-the-car-door-handle myth, it’s always a good idea to be cautious when it comes to your vehicle’s safety. Lock your car, park it in well-lit areas, and consider investing in additional security measures, such as car alarms or steering wheel locks.
While the urban legend about coins on car door handles persists, it’s crucial to approach this idea with a degree of skepticism. It’s not an established fact that a coin on your car’s door handle unequivocally means your vehicle will be stolen. It might be one of many possibilities or a simple case of forgetfulness. Ultimately, staying cautious and taking proactive measures to protect your car is a wise decision, regardless of the myths and legends circulating around.
