UPDATE: New York State Attorney General Letitia James just announced a groundbreaking settlement of up to $9 million with Kia and Hyundai aimed at addressing rampant car thefts impacting residents. This settlement comes after a bipartisan coalition of attorney generals secured vital reforms due to the manufacturers’ failure to install adequate anti-theft technology in their vehicles.
Victims of these thefts are speaking out, sharing harrowing experiences about the impact of these crimes. “I never see anyone have any issues with any of their cars. But the one time I parked on the side of that road, the next day I go to leave and it’s gone,” said Carissa Visalli from Rochester, whose vehicle remains missing weeks later.
Another victim, Winnifred Kingsfield, detailed her experience: “My girlfriend and I were on our way to go to the gym and just go shopping. It was November, I guess, third or fourth, and my car was stolen.” Despite having taken precautions, her vehicle was taken, leaving her reliant on coworkers for transportation.
In a staggering statistic, Monroe County, where both victims reside, reported over 1,400 stolen Kias and Hyundais in just six months of 2023. The settlement includes provisions for Hyundai and Kia to cover theft-related expenses: up to $4,500 for total losses, $2,250 for partial losses, and up to $375 for attempted theft expenses.
As the settlement unfolds, victims like Kingsfield continue to navigate the aftermath. “I’ve been really grateful for my coworkers to be able to give me rides to and from work,” she noted, emphasizing the strain of being without a vehicle. Kingsfield’s stolen car was eventually found but damaged, complicating her recovery process.
Visalli expressed her frustration over her missing vehicle, which contained essential baby items. “I’m just kind of waiting for help or some kind of, like, miracle,” she lamented, highlighting the emotional toll and uncertainty faced by theft victims.
As part of the settlement, Kia and Hyundai will also pay $4.5 million in penalties to a coalition of states, with New York expected to receive over $220,000. These thefts have often been linked to minors, prompting the National Insurance Crime Bureau to recommend preventative measures such as parking in well-lit areas, rolling up windows, and securing keys.
This is a developing story, and more updates are expected as victims begin to receive compensation. The urgency of this settlement cannot be understated, as families are left grappling with the loss of their vehicles and the daily challenges that follow. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue affecting countless residents.
