The 10 Scariest Things About Car Stolen With Keys
The 10 Scariest Things About Car Stolen With Keys
Blog Article
Does Insurance Cover Cars Stolen With Keys Inside?
Leaving your car keys in the ignition might sound like a bad idea but does insurance cover cars that are stolen with keys in them? Generally, yes. However, there are a few caveats.
First, ensure that your car is not missing prior to filing claims. Know that the claim process will start with a police report and a thorough description of the vehicle.
1. Call the police
It is essential to take preventative measures to protect your vehicle and its contents. Car theft is increasing across the country and Colorado is the top state for per capita thefts. This includes locking your car, setting up an alert and removing all keys or fobs from the vehicle while you're not driving. It's a good idea also to hide valuables in the vehicle, or better yet, remove the car altogether. However, even if you've taken precautionary steps, you might be the victim of a crime that is a matter of opportunity. If you have a key inside of your vehicle that's stolen, here are the steps you need to take to report the theft to police and your insurer.
You should notify the police immediately after your vehicle has been reported stolen in order to submit a police report. The more details you can provide the police about your car like its make and model and the license plate number, or VIN, the better chances of it being returned to you. Also let the police know if your vehicle is equipped with a GPS device.
Once you've filed a police report, contact your insurance company to notify them of the theft. You'll be able to make this call or online, based on the policies of your insurance company. Input your policy number, the car's make and model, any identifiable details (like large dents or custom add-ons) and the time and location of the theft. Let your insurance agent know that you have other equipment on your vehicle, for instance a GPS tracking system, that could help them locate it.
Be sure to give the police and your insurance company with the same information, as any inconsistencies could delay the processing of your claim. In addition, if you are in substantial debt, the insurance company can utilize this information to decide whether to cover your claim or not. This is why it's advisable to keep all personal documents or data in your vehicle, like receipts, credit cards and pay stubs. If you do decide to leave this information in your vehicle, make sure to inform your bank, credit card companies and other companies of the theft so they can put a halt to any unauthorised charges and notify their security departments.
2. Contact Your Insurer
Car theft is on the rise. Every year, thousands cars with keys inside are taken. It's not just bad luck. You can help prevent this crime by adding more security measures to your vehicle.
The first thing you need to do is contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after the incident. Your insurer will be able to provide you with a car rental while you wait for your car to be returned or compensate you if it isn't. They will be able to answer all of your questions and provide you with the details of your insurance policy. It's also crucial to make a police report containing the name and number of the officer who investigated the incident, along with the date and time of the theft.
Include all relevant information about your vehicle, including its make and model and an in-depth description of the items that were stolen. Be sure to include your name as well as the number and information about anyone who may have had access to your vehicle or valuables inside. This information will help police investigate the claim and rule out people who may be attempting to commit fraud. It may be necessary to conduct a credit check in addition. This is to ensure that you are not in debt to the extent of, which would raise suspicions of fraud and make it more difficult for you to secure a satisfactory settlement for your stolen car.
Your insurance company can also provide you with the name and number of a representative who will assist you in the claim process. You can reach them in various ways, including via phone or via online chat.
If filing a claim for car insurance with the police and your insurer is an inconvenience and it's important to file it as swiftly as you can. Not only does it ensure your vehicle receives the attention it deserves however, it will also help you avoid getting victimized by a scam or being denied coverage due to a simple mistake.
3. Claim your Benefits
You'll need to provide all the information as quickly as you can. Include any photos and the location of your vehicle before and after the theft, and the contact information of any person who had access it. Your insurance company needs the full description of your car including any upgrades and other options. Keep receipts.
You may have to make two claims. One for your auto insurance policy and one for renters or homeowners for any personal belongings that were in the vehicle. If you have comprehensive coverage under your auto policy, it should be able to cover the cost of replacing your property. However, your policy's limits and deductible will apply.
After your claim is completed, your insurance company will either pay you back the actual cash value of the vehicle when it's determined to be totaled, or pay the full cost if your vehicle is recovered and returned. You'll then be responsible for your deductible in the event that you decide to repair the vehicle, which is usually not feasible.
It could take up to 30 days or more for an insurer to settle a stolen car claim. It can be difficult to travel while waiting, so make sure your policy covers rental reimbursement. The majority of policies do, however coverage differs by the policy and provider.
Inform the police immediately if it's not found. This will add your vehicle to databases of the state and national levels, which will make it difficult for thieves later on to try to sell your vehicle. You can also include a police report to your auto insurance policy by filing it with your insurer.
Leaving your keys in your car could result in a car being stolen It's therefore recommended to keep them in a secure place and lock the vehicle when not being used. You can also stop theft by parking your car in well-lit areas and keeping your key with you.
4. Recover Your Car
If you are certain that your car has been stolen with keys inside, you should call the police to file a complaint. This will add the details about your vehicle to state and federal databases which makes it harder for thieves to steal it. It is also recommended to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to make a claim for a stolen vehicle.
If you have comprehensive coverage and your insurance company will reimburse you to replace your stolen vehicle minus depreciation. The insurance company will evaluate the value of your vehicle by taking into account things like similar vehicles in your area as well as the mileage on your odometer and other factors. You'll still have to pay a $500 deduction.
Your insurance company will repair any damage caused while your car was stolen, even the keys were inside. If you own a tracking device it can help police find your car once it's found.
If your car was stolen with your keys inside, you need to take action immediately. Delays can cause your claim to be rejected or be investigated as fraud. In some cases an insurance agent could be able to ask you questions under the oath.
You may have to file an a claim on any additional items you have taken from your vehicle. Comprehensive auto insurance will protect your car. These items are most likely to be covered by renters or homeowners insurance, depending on the location in which they were kept. If you have both your auto and homeowners insurance policies together you can make both claims at the same time.
When you are not driving your vehicle, you must always secure it by locking it and taking out the keys. Keep the spare key in a safe location away from your vehicle. Do not put your car was stolen with keys inside name or address on your car keys. Also, select parking spaces that are well-lit, monitored and off-street as much as you can. Also, ensure that your car is parked in a secure, well-lit location and that you're not blocking mailboxes or driveways.