Could your $65,000 truck be gone in just 43 seconds?
And if it is, will your insurance actually pay to replace it?
This exact nightmare happened at a Fort Worth shopping center, where a professional theft ring drove off with a Roanoke resident’s Ford F-150 Platinum in under a minute.
The difference between financial ruin and recovery came down to one thing, the right insurance coverage.
In this article, you’ll see what happened, why North Texas trucks are top theft targets, and the five strategies every truck owner must use to protect their investment.
How Thieves Steal Trucks in 43 Seconds (and How to Stop Them)
Security footage revealed two individuals using an electronic device to intercept the truck’s key fob signal. This signal relay attack disabled the alarm and unlocked the truck, no broken glass, no noise, and no chance for bystanders to intervene.
This method, now common across Texas, makes even well-lit parking lots high-risk.
Why Your Truck Is at High Risk for Theft in North Texas
- High resale value: The Ford F-Series tops national theft charts (12,952 stolen in 2024)
- Keyless vulnerability: Electronic signals can be intercepted in seconds
- Shopping center patterns: Thieves exploit predictable owner routines
- Fast escape routes: Proximity to I-35W and Highway 114 speeds stolen trucks out of town
Texas Theft Statistics: A Growing Threat
Fort Worth Police reported 2,837 vehicles stolen between May and October 2024, a 4.1% increase year over year. With 4.732 thefts per 1,000 residents, Fort Worth is among Texas’s top theft hotspots and Roanoke drivers travel these same routes daily.
Minimum vs. Comprehensive Coverage: The $65K Difference
| Coverage Type | Theft Protection | Roanoke Customer Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Minimum Liability | None | $0 payout, $65,000 loss |
| Comprehensive (Neill Policy) | Theft, fire, vandalism, flood | $66,200 payout, $500 deductible |
If this driver had carried only the Texas liability minimum, he would have received nothing. Instead, his Neill Insurance policy paid $66,200, enough to replace the truck, cover taxes, registration, and accessories.
5 Strategies Every North Texas Truck Owner Must Use
1. Upgrade to Replacement Cost Coverage
Why it matters: Actual cash value deducts depreciation, leaving you thousands short
Action step: Insist on replacement cost terms so you receive enough to buy a comparable new truck
2. Cover Accessories and Equipment
Why it matters: Toolboxes, lift kits, and electronics add $5,000 to $15,000 in value often excluded from basic policies
Action step: Itemize and insure each accessory under your equipment endorsement
3. Ensure Strong Rental Vehicle Provisions
Why it matters: Theft claims take 3 to 6 weeks. Without proper rental coverage, you’ll be stranded
Action step: Extend rental coverage to 30 to 45 days with limits matching a full-size pickup
4. Document Your Truck Thoroughly
Why it matters: Photos, receipts, and maintenance records speed up claims and prevent disputes
Action step: Keep a digital folder with up-to-date truck and accessory documentation
5. Partner with Specialized Local Experts
Why it matters: Generic agents often underinsure high-value vehicles
Action step: Work with local specialists like Neill Insurance, who understand North Texas theft risks and offer multi-carrier solutions
Protect Your Truck Before It’s Too Late
The story of the stolen truck in Fort Worth is a cautionary tale with a fortunate ending. It underscores the importance of reviewing your auto insurance policy to ensure you have the right protection in place. Don’t assume you’re covered for theft just because you have insurance. If you’re a truck or SUV owner in the Roanoke or greater DFW area, now is the time to take a closer look at your policy.
Are you confident your insurance would cover the full loss of your vehicle?
If you’re unsure, or if you’d like a complimentary review of your current policy, contact the experts at Neill Insurance Brokers today. Their team of experienced advisors can help you identify any gaps in your coverage and find a policy that truly protects your assets.
📞 Call us at (682) 237-7975 or click below to secure your peace of mind.
