The pandemic and social distancing have had unique impacts on public safety unrelated to COVID-19 infection. Through mandated lockdowns and state-ordered curfews, the impact of social isolation, increased amount of time spent at home, and rising social tensions have factored into crime data numbers this year, new research finds. In a recent analysis, researchers from Freeway Insurance looked at crime data in metropolises with populations of 500,000 or more to identify the safest and least safe cities in the U.S. in 2020. The analysis sourced the most up-to-date 2020 crime data reported by municipal and regional police forces in each city to grade its safety. Rankings were based on three factors: violent crime rate (50%), murder rate (30%) and property crime rate (20%). In publishing the study's findings, Freeway Insurance analysts note national year-over-year trends, While violent crime and property crimes decreased by 1.3% and 8% nationwide between January and June of 2020 compared to the same timeframe in 2019, murder and non-negligent homicides rose 25% year-to-date. Previously, FBI data for the first six months of 2020 showed that motor vehicle thefts were up 6.2%, aggravated assaults up 4.6% and arson offenses rose 52% in cities with populations exceeding one million. For insureds, crime rates can play a role in shopping for and the pricing of renters and home insurance, Freeway CEO Cesar Soriano notes. "A customer can choose to get renters insurance to protect their personal belongings against theft," Soriano writes. "When it comes to homeownership and insurance, where you live often plays a role and can benefit a homebuyer, which is why you are asked about garages, security alarms and more." Considering crime statistics in your city can also be a critical factor in helping insureds determine their particular insurance needs and coverages. In the slideshow above, discover the 10 safest cities in 2020, ranked by Freeway Insurance. Related: |

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