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Is Your Car Secure? How to Protect Yourself from Car Theft

Car theft continues to be a prevalent issue in Canada, with billions of dollars lost annually due to stolen vehicles. Protecting your car from theft should be a top priority, and having comprehensive auto insurance coverage is essential.

Car theft can occur in different ways, including break-ins and vehicle theft. Regarding insurance coverage for car theft, it’s important to have a comprehensive auto insurance policy in place. Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from various damages, including theft. However, it’s crucial to note that auto insurance typically does not cover the cost of items stolen from your car, such as laptops or phones. These personal belongings can be protected through personal property coverage offered by your home or renter’s insurance policy.

Does Car Insurance Cover Theft?

Having comprehensive auto insurance coverage is vital to protect your vehicle from theft. If your car is stolen, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairing any damage caused by the thieves. However, it’s essential to understand that if your stolen vehicle is not recovered, it may be considered a total loss. In such cases, the insurance company will cover your car’s insured value or the depreciated value minus the deductible stated in your policy.

Rental Car Reimbursement Coverage

In the unfortunate event of a car theft or break-in, you may need an alternative mode of transportation while your car is being repaired or replaced. Rental car reimbursement coverage (aka Loss of Use) can be a valuable addition to your auto insurance policy. This coverage reimburses you for the cost of renting a vehicle while yours is unavailable due to a covered loss, such as theft.

It’s important to be aware of the coverage limits for rental reimbursement. There is sometimes a daily coverage limit or a total coverage limit per claim. Any charges above these limits will have to be paid out of pocket. To ensure adequate protection, consider working with your insurance advisor to adjust these coverage limits before you experience a loss.

How to Protect Yourself from Car Theft

While comprehensive auto insurance coverage is crucial, you can also take several proactive steps to protect your vehicle from theft. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Lock Your Doors and Close Windows

Always remember to lock your car doors and close the windows, even if you’re just leaving the vehicle for a moment. This simple step can deter opportunistic thieves and make it more difficult for them to access your car.

2. Avoid Leaving Your Car Unattended with the Keys Inside

Leaving your car unattended with the keys inside, even for a short period, can make it an easy target for thieves. Always take your keys with you, and never leave your vehicle running and unattended.

3. Choose Safe Parking Locations

When parking your car, opt for well-lit areas and secure parking lots whenever possible. If you have access to a garage, use it to park your vehicle. Installing additional lighting and security cameras outside your home can also deter thieves.

4. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Avoid leaving valuable items in plain sight inside your car. Items such as laptops, phones, wallets, and shopping bags can attract unwanted attention from potential thieves. Store your belongings in the trunk or take them when leaving the car.

5. Cover Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

An effective theft prevention tactic is to cover your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the driver’s side of the dashboard with a piece of paper. This makes it more difficult for thieves to use your VIN to recreate a key fob and steal your car.

6. Install Anti-Theft Devices

Consider investing in anti-theft devices for your vehicle. Steering wheel locks, GPS tracking systems, and immobilizers are examples of effective anti-theft devices that can deter thieves and make it more challenging for them to steal your car. Some insurance companies even offer discounts for installing anti-theft devices, so be sure to check with your provider.

What to Do If Your Car Is Stolen

In the unfortunate event that your car is stolen, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Here are the steps you should follow:

Contact the Police: Report the theft to the police as soon as possible. Provide them with all the necessary information, including the make, model, license plate, and VIN of your vehicle and the location where it was stolen.
Inform Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company and inform them about the theft. Provide them with the details of the police report and any other relevant information they may require.
Begin the Claims Process: Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process. If your stolen vehicle is recovered, your comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairing any damages caused by the thieves. However, if the vehicle is not recovered, it may be considered a total loss, and your insurance company will compensate you based on the insured value of the car minus the deductible stated in your policy.
Consider Rental Car Reimbursement: If you have rental car reimbursement coverage, you can arrange a rental vehicle while your stolen car is replaced or repaired. Check the coverage limits and requirements of your policy to ensure you meet all necessary conditions for reimbursement.

Does Car Theft Affect Your Insurance Premium?

Auto theft rates can indeed have an impact on your insurance premium. When calculating premiums, insurance companies consider the statistical history of car thefts in your area and the theft risk associated with your specific vehicle model. If you live in an area with a high rate of car thefts or own a vehicle that thieves frequently target, you may experience higher insurance premiums.

It’s important to note that insurance premiums are also influenced by other factors, such as your driving history, age, and the coverage options you choose. To find the best insurance premium for your needs, it’s recommended to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies. An independent insurance broker, like Harvard Western Insurance, can assist you in finding the right coverage at the best price.

Protecting your car from theft is a vital aspect of car ownership. In addition to having comprehensive auto insurance coverage, taking proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of car theft. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can enhance the security of your vehicle and have peace of mind knowing that you’ve taken steps to protect yourself against potential theft. Remember, it’s always better to be proactive than deal with car theft’s consequences. Stay vigilant and keep your car secure!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Please consult with a professional insurance agent or broker for personalized guidance.

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