When a person thinks about car theft, there are a few scenarios to imagine such as personal property items stolen out of your vehicle, car parts stolen from your vehicle, or your car was physically stolen and couldn’t be recovered.
So, the question is, are you covered if you experience any of the following theft scenarios? The answer varies based on what type of auto insurance coverage you purchased.
Comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy typically provides coverage if your car was stolen (and was never recovered) or if you had car parts stolen out of your vehicle. If you do not have this coverage on your auto insurance policy, your insurance carrier cannot offer you any assistance.
Common Car Parts Targeted in Vehicles Recently
The past few years, thieves have been targeting catalytic converters in vehicles. This car part not only has precious metals that makes it valuable to re-sell, but catalytic converters can be easy to steal due to its location in a vehicle. Also, some vehicles tend to be easier to target this parts than others along with some being more valuable parts than others. The best tip here would be to park your car in a well-lit area.
If you had your catalytic converter stolen from your vehicle and you had comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, you should be covered by your insurance policy.
My Car was Stolen – But It Has Been Recovered Vandalized
Vandalism is included with comprehensive coverage and should pay for the damages up to your policy limits, less your deductible.
I had personal valuables stolen out of my vehicle – am I covered?
Your auto insurance policy does not offer coverage for stolen personal property items that were taken from inside your car. However, you could file a claim under your home or renters insurance policy.
Thinking of investing in a car alarm system? Talk to your insurance agent to see if you qualify for a discount. Not only do car alarms offer some peace of mind, but you could be rewarded with an insurance discount too.
How to Prevent Car Break-ins
There is only one way to prevent personal property theft out of your vehicle – never leave anything in your vehicle!
Sometimes this is easier said than done.
If you do have to store valuables inside your vehicle, be sure they are out of sight. Investing a car alarm can also bring some peace of mind. It’s also important to know the area where you are parking your vehicle. If it is known for break-ins, always plan on bring your valuables along with you.
Looking to Add Comprehensive Coverage to Your Current Auto Insurance Policy?
Call our agency for a free quote. We can review your current auto insurance coverage or provide you with a new quote that includes comprehensive coverage. We’ll quote our top carriers and help you find the best policy for your needs.