Car theft can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but knowing that you’re covered by your car insurance policy can bring you peace of mind. In addition, understanding what your policy includes can help you stay prepared for the unexpected. Learn whether your car insurance covers theft and what to do if your vehicle is broken into.
Key Takeaways
- What Car Insurance Covers Theft? Comprehensive car insurance usually covers theft, including the vehicle itself and related damages.
- Are Broken Windows Covered? Coverage may extend to broken windows and stolen items, depending on your policy.
- Car Theft and Your Premiums: Car theft can affect your insurance premiums, especially if you live in a high-risk area.
What Type of Car Insurance Covers Theft?
Most standard car insurance policies include theft coverage if you have comprehensive insurance. This type of coverage goes beyond accidents and protects against a wide range of non-collision-related incidents, including theft. Whether it’s your entire car being stolen or just a part of it, like your wheels, comprehensive insurance can help you recover the loss.
Does Every Insurance Policy Cover Theft?
Whether car theft is covered by your insurance policy depends on the type of insurance you have. If you have comprehensive coverage, your policy should help you recover the current value of your vehicle, minus your deductible. However, if you only have liability insurance, theft won’t be included in your policy as liability insurance only covers the damages you cause others in an accident.
What If My Stolen Vehicle Is Recovered?
If your stolen car is recovered, your insurance may cover the cost of any damages sustained during the theft, such as vandalism or missing parts. Depending on the extent of the damage, you might still file a claim to repair the vehicle.
Does Car Insurance Cover Broken Windows from Theft?
If your car is broken into, the damage left behind can be just as stressful as the theft itself. Fortunately, comprehensive insurance typically covers the cost of repairs for door locks, windows, and other components that were damaged from a break-in. After paying your deductible, your insurance should take care of the rest.
Does Car Insurance Cover Stolen Items?
Your car insurance primarily focuses on the vehicle itself, not personal belongings in your car. In general, your insurance policy won’t cover stolen personal items, such as laptops, phones, or other valuables. However, your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance might provide some coverage for these missing items. Check with your insurer to understand what your policy includes.
How Does Car Theft Affect Your Insurance Premiums?
Experiencing car theft can impact your insurance premiums in several ways. If you file a claim for a stolen vehicle, your insurance provider may see you as a higher risk, especially if you live in an area with a lot of vehicle theft. This increased risk could result in higher premiums when your policy renews.
To mitigate this, consider taking steps to secure your vehicle like installing an anti-theft device, parking in well-lit areas, or securing your car in a garage or locked space. These measures may reduce the risk of theft and the risk of increased premiums.
What to Do If Your Car Is Stolen
If your car is stolen, there are a few steps you should take right away:
- Contact the police: Report the theft to the police as soon as possible. You’ll need the police report to file an insurance claim.
- Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurer about the theft. They can guide you through the claims process and let you know what information they need.
- Gather the necessary documents: Prepare your car’s registration, title, and any other relevant documents to provide to your insurer.
If you have comprehensive coverage, you’ll likely be covered for car theft, damage from break-ins, and possibly broken windows. And if you’re looking for an affordable policy to protect your vehicle, get a quote from The General in under two minutes and start safeguarding your car today.
