Since 1991, vehicle thefts in the United States have reached or exceeded 600,000 each year. In 2020 alone vehicle theft spiked in every major city to its highest figures since 2009. Although it can happen at any time, the summer months are when you are most likely to be the victim of vehicle theft. That’s why every July the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration holds its annual National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.
Vehicle Theft Prevention Month is focused on, well, vehicle theft prevention. With such thefts costing Americans billions of dollars each year, it is certainly worth raising awareness on the subject. The NHTSA has some simple suggestions to keep your vehicle safe this summer. Here are a few:
- Invest in anti-theft systems and devices. Horn alarms, flashing lights, ignition locks, and even devices designed to aid in the recovery of stolen vehicles can be purchased to keep your vehicle where it belongs – in your driveway.
- Use your head. Close windows, lock doors, and never leave your keys in the car outside of your home. Don’t leave your vehicle running unattended. Over half of vehicle thefts in 2021 were thanks, in part, to owner carelessness. Don’t make it easy!
- Don’t leave bait. Too often people leave valuable items in their vehicle that draw thieves’ attention. Don’t make your vehicle more susceptible to theft by baiting the hook, so to speak. Take valuable items inside or stow them out of sight.
Maybe you have already taken these precautions and then some, or maybe your keys are in your car right now. Whatever the case, it is important to remember that even the most prepared drivers can fall victim to vehicle theft. So, what happens if you walk out of your house tomorrow and your vehicle is gone, along with everything inside of it? That’s where insurance comes in!
In the case that your vehicle is stolen, turn to your insurance for help making you and your family whole again. The comprehensive coverage on your auto policy will cover you in most car theft scenarios, providing compensation if your vehicle is unrecoverable, or helping with covered damages in the event that your vehicle is recovered but sustained damage during the theft. This coverage may also provide assistance in case of vandalism, stolen keys, or stolen parts on your vehicle.
But what about any property inside the vehicle? Insurance! But it won’t be your auto insurance that covers this, as comprehensive coverage does not cover the theft of personal property inside of a stolen vehicle. Instead, your renters or homeowners insurance policy would be triggered to reimburse you for your stolen property, granted you have proof of purchase.
In either case you will likely be responsible for covering your deductible in the instance of a vehicle theft. Beyond that, most people don’t keep a detailed inventory of the items in their vehicles. Because of that, we here at Insurance Strategies – The Cooksey Agency urge you to take the proper precautions with your ride.
Not sure if you’re covered in the event of vehicle theft? Give us a call today at 757-819-6896 and let us help bring you the peace of mind you deserve!