The majority (96%) of British drivers regularly leave gadgets in their cars, with one-in-three leaving them in full view on the seat or dashboard, according to online car insurer swiftcover.

Research from the British Police revealed a significant rise in gadget theft from cars in 2007. According to the Metropolitan Police, the theft of satellite navigators from cars in London rose by 154% between April 2006 and April 2007.

Swiftcover’s research also found that mobile phones are the most popular in-car gadget, with 98% of drivers surveyed admitting to keeping them in their car. A further 35% said they regularly kept an MP3 player in their car, while 38% said they had a satellite navigation system.

Tina Shortle, marketing director of swiftcover, said: “Sat navs, MP3 players, mobile phones and digital cameras are a thief’s dream. They are easy to snatch, easy to conceal and because they are desirable items, they are easy to sell on.

“We strongly urge drivers to take 30 seconds to check their vehicle and to lock their gadgets in the glove box or boot when parking, even when leaving their car unattended at a petrol station. This little routine will ensure no gadget is visible.”