### What to Do if Your Car is Damaged or Stolen in a Shopping Center Parking Lot in Tijuana
If your car is stolen or damaged while parked in a Tijuana shopping center, the establishment is obligated to respond, particularly if you’ve paid to park there. According to Tijuana’s Parking Services Regulation, Article 21 dictates the responsibility of these establishments. Gabriel Mendívil García, President of the Specialized Group of Shopping Centers of the Tijuana National Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes the importance of filing a complaint to initiate the resolution process.
In Tijuana, there are reports of an average of 18 car thefts per day. Stores that charge for parking must have insurance that covers theft or damage, transferring this liability to the insurance company if the car isn’t insured by its owner. The cancellation of a policy can only proceed with authorization from the competent authority.
If a shopping center or parking lot neglects their responsibility, affected individuals can seek assistance from the government for enforcement. Hans Zamorano Dueñas, Coordinator of the National Coordinators of Lawyers of Mexico, advises regular inspections of these businesses by municipal authorities to ensure compliance, with non-compliant establishments facing potential closure.
Additionally, victims can file complaints with the municipality, or in more severe instances, with the local Procuration of Justice office. Checking the legal status of the parking or shopping center might also provide some leverage.
### Additional Reporting on Vehicle Theft in Tijuana
Increased vehicle theft remains a significant issue in Tijuana, particularly during peak seasons such as the holiday period. Recent reports suggest a fluctuating wave of thefts coinciding with festive seasons, which often see a rise in opportunistic crimes. Precautionary measures by both individuals and authorities are recommended during these times.
Experts encourage citizens to be diligent about parking in well-lit, secured areas and to report suspicious activities. They also urge parking lot operators to enhance security measures further, aligning with the local authorities’ efforts to curb these theft incidences effectively.
Robust cooperation between law enforcement and the community is essential in tackling this crime wave and ensuring a safer environment for vehicle owners in Tijuana.