loader

Does Auto Insurance Cover Any Personal Items Stolen from Your Car?

Jul 13, 2022

Auto Insurance

Does Auto Insurance Cover Any Personal Items Stolen from Your Car?

Your car is one of your most prized possessions. There's also a good chance that you've customized your car by adding a few accessories. While you may view your car as a second home, there are a few things you must consider. The most important variable is your auto insurance policy. Auto insurance policies do not cover your personal items. However, home and renter’s insurance may cover the personal items inside your vehicle if they are damaged or stolen.

What to Do If Your Car Is Broken Into?

Being targeted for a car break-in can be a traumatic experience, especially if you have expensive items in your vehicle at the time of the theft attempt. You may be left unprotected while dealing with expensive potential replacement costs. While auto insurance does not cover any damage to your personal items, filing a claim for a broken window or other physical damages to the car is still recommended.

It's recommended that you document the scene by taking photos of the damages. Try to make a list of the stolen items. Generally, the next step is to file a police report. Your insurer may require you to file a police report to help finalize the claim. In order to file the report, you'll need proof of a driver's license, vehicle registration, photos of the damages, and a list of the stolen items to help finalize the report. If your personal items are stolen out of the vehicle, you should be able to file a home or renter’s insurance claim to cover the stolen items.

What to Do If Your Car Is Broken Into?

Being targeted for a car break-in can be a traumatic experience, especially if you have expensive items in your vehicle at the time of the theft attempt. You may be left unprotected while dealing with expensive potential replacement costs. While auto insurance does not cover any damage to your personal items, filing a claim for a broken window or other physical damages to the car is still recommended.

It's recommended that you document the scene by taking photos of the damages. Try to make a list of the stolen items. Generally, the next step is to file a police report. Your insurer may require you to file a police report to help finalize the claim. In order to file the report, you'll need proof of a driver's license, vehicle registration, photos of the damages, and a list of the stolen items to help finalize the report. If your personal items are stolen out of the vehicle, you should be able to file a home or renter’s insurance claim to cover the stolen items.

What Does Home/Renters Insurance Cover Inside Your Vehicle?

Home and renter’s insurance policies cover any items inside your car that are not affixed to it. Examples of items that are attached to your vehicle include your stereo or navigation system. Your home or renter’s insurance will not cover damage to those items. Also, keep in mind that each policy has different limits. Your home insurance policy may have low coverage limits. If you store valuable items inside your vehicle from time to time, then it's recommended that you increase the coverage limits regarding your possessions. If you opt to file a claim for the damaged or stolen items, your insurer may ask you to show your receipts and other relevant documentation to show the true value of the items.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage for Your Vehicle Theft

If you have comprehensive auto insurance, you are covered if your vehicle is vandalized or stolen. Comprehensive insurance also covers damages caused by a fire or natural disaster. If your vehicle suffers damage, your insurer will compensate you based on the value of your vehicle. If your vehicle is totaled, your insurer will compensate you based on the Actual Cash Value.

It's recommended that you assess your deductible before making a decision. Your deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying towards a loss before your insurance covers the rest. It is generally in your best interest to avoid filing a claim if your deductible costs more than the projected repair costs. Also, be aware that filing multiple claims within a relatively short amount of time may cause your premiums to increase. If you've already filed a claim in the past, try to avoid filing another claim unless your vehicle has suffered serious damage.

Consult with John E. Peakes Insurance Agency

To help minimize the chances of a burglary occurring, it's recommended that you keep your car doors locked at all times and avoid leaving important personal items in your car. If you have any questions about your coverage, contact the team here at John E. Peakes Insurance Agency today. Our expert insurance agents will create the best insurance coverage policy suited to your needs.