Auto insurance is designed to cover you in emergencies. While you know that insurance covers you if your vehicle sustains damage, you may need clarification on whether your physical possessions are covered. To alleviate potential stress, here's an overview of how your auto insurance is impacted if your items are stolen.
Most auto insurance policies do not cover personal items inside your vehicle. Auto insurance covers your vehicle and also protects you in some situations. Home or renters insurance is a possible solution. These policies generally cover your items inside the vehicle. While home or renters insurance may cover your stolen electronics and clothes, there are potential exclusions. Your home insurance may not cover damage to items attached to your vehicle, such as an audio or navigation system.
Keep in mind that each insurance policy has different limits. If expensive items are stolen from your vehicle, and you have limited coverage through your home insurance, you may be forced to cover the remaining balance out of pocket. It's recommended that you look over your home or renters insurance policy closely.
While having your car broken into is a traumatic experience, it's recommended that you try to stay calm. Get started gathering evidence for your claim as soon as possible. When you file a claim, you will increase your chances of processing it quickly if you have photos and other essential documents. Take pictures of the interior and exterior damage. It's also recommended that you write a list of everything stolen.
It's also important to file a police report as soon as possible. Most insurance companies mandate that you file a police report before finalizing your claim. You may file a report on the scene or at the police station. Ensure you have your driver's license, insurance documents, registration, photos, and list of stolen items on hand to finalize your police report. You may end up filing multiple claims depending on the damages. You can file an auto insurance claim if your vehicle sustained damages and a home insurance claim to assist with replacing the stolen items out of your vehicle. If sensitive information was compromised, then it's recommended that you contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert and consider freezing your financial accounts.
Comprehensive auto insurance is an asset because it covers you if your car is stolen or vandalized. While it may cover potential replacement costs for stolen items inside the vehicle, it can assist with potential interior and exterior repair costs if someone damages your vehicle while breaking into it. It's also essential to assess your deductible before filing a claim. Your auto insurance deductible is the amount you pay towards a claim before your insurance takes over. If your deductible is more expensive than your repair costs, it may not benefit you to file a claim. There's also a chance that filing a lawsuit may raise your monthly premiums in the future.
You can reduce the chances of having your possessions stolen by locking your car doors and installing an alarm system that activates whenever you leave your car. It's also recommended that you park in safe locations at night. If you cannot park in the garage, look for well-lit areas.
Consult with Humble & Davenport Insurance Group!
While auto insurance doesn't cover your possessions if they are stolen from your vehicle, you may be covered through your home or renters insurance. Suppose you have any questions while researching coverage. Contact the team here at Humble & Davenport Insurance Group so we can help you find the right policy.
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