It may seem like common sense, but thousands of vehicles are stolen every year in Texas because drivers either leave their keys in the ignition or fail to lock their doors.

The Texas Auto Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority, of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, has a campaign known as "Watch Your Car" to educate drivers.

According to Abilene police, drivers also have a role to play in decreasing auto theft and burglary.

"This year alone, we've already had 109 cars stolen within the jurisdiction of Abilene," Officer George Spindler with the Abilene Police Department said.

He also said during just one week in June, 17 unlocked cars were burglarized.

According to police, auto theft and burglary happen most often to drivers who are too trusting. He said drivers should make themselves a hard target.

"People pull up to their driveway and have a false sense of security," he said. "Roll those windows up all the way. Don't leave them cracked. Lock your doors and know where your keys are at all times."

He also said it is important for drivers to always take their keys out of the ignition and take their keys with them wherever they go.

But a stolen or burglarized car is not the worst thing that could happen if drivers are not careful.

"The theft of a motor vehicle is a gateway crime," said Spindler.

Authorities said crimes most associated with auto theft include robbery, violent crime and even drug or gang related activity.

"Do us all a favor, prevent the theft of that vehicle by taking that key with you everywhere you go, including your driveway and your residence," Spindler said.

The Department of Motor Vehicles has been campaigning for years to educate drivers. The department estimates 50,000 unsecured vehicles are stolen every year in Texas.