What to Do If Your Car Got Stolen With Keys in It
If you have comprehensive car insurance, you'll be covered even if lose the keys to your car. But, it's crucial to act quickly.
The longer you wait the longer you wait, the more likely that your claim will be rejected. Rental reimbursement coverage is available.
Don't panic
If you're trying to get in your car, and you can't locate your keys, it's a frightening moment. It can ruin the day and be a source of frustration. This is why it's important to remain in a calm state and think rationally. First, ensure that you've checked everywhere in your pockets, bags, and any other places you might have placed them. Also, revisit your day. Maybe you dropped them somewhere or reached in your pocket to pick up your phone, but knocked out your keys.
Contact the police if can't locate them. Reporting the lost keys to the police as soon as you can will assist them in finding them and may stop people from using your vehicle without your consent. Informing your insurance company of the theft of your vehicle is crucial. This way, they can help you obtain a new set of keys.
Check your policy to see if the loss of the vehicle is covered. Most policies cover a vehicle that was stolen with the keys inside, but the conditions and terms vary. Certain companies do not cover personal belongings in the car. Check with your home insurance or renters' insurance provider.
It is also advisable to contact the leasing or financing company if the car is leased. They will also want to report the crime to the police. This will help them avoid being held responsible for the car in the event of theft, and it may also aid in speeding the process of getting the vehicle back.
Installing anti-theft devices on your vehicle can also deter thieves. These devices can include a GPS tracker, a steering wheel lock or a car alarm. These devices will usually cost a little more to set up however, they can save you money in the end by preventing theft of your vehicle. The key is to keep your car in good shape and avoid parking it in a dangerous area.
Contact the police
If you are unable to locate your car and know it's stolen the first thing to do is contact the police. You'll be provided with an identification number that is essential for keeping track of the progress of your investigation. This will assist you with your insurance claim in the future.
You will need to give a detailed description of the vehicle, which includes the model and make along with the license plate number. The VIN is located in your Proof of Insurance (this could either be a physical document that you can access on your phone or an application). If you have any other details about the location and time you last saw it, for example, distinctive features such as large dents or custom-designed add-ons, or distinct scratches and marks, you must give that information too.
It is important to inform your insurance company immediately after you make a police report. This will speed up the process, and you may be protected from liability that is too high. If the person who stole your vehicle and causes an accident, you may be held accountable based on your state's laws and insurance coverage.
NICB data shows that car thefts where keys are left in the vehicle are on the increase. Every 32 seconds, a car with keys inside is taken in the United States. This results in a loss of over $8 billion.
The best way to prevent this is to lock your car and not leave valuables in plain sight. You should also roll up your windows to the maximum and ensure that you do not leave your car running when you are not there, especially with keys in it.
Another aspect to be aware of is that your renters or homeowner's insurance may cover the things that you have in your car, if they were insured under these policies. If you included electronics in your vehicle it is likely that they wouldn't be covered under this type of policy.
You should also be aware of your financial accounts, especially if you keep personal documents such as receipts and pay stubs in your vehicle. It is important to notify your bank immediately.
Get a spare key
Not long ago losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring them to your local key maker and get them duplicated at an affordable cost. Many cars now have high-tech security measures that make it difficult to replace the key of a stolen vehicle without going to the dealer or automaker to seek assistance.
If you have an extra key, it is best to put it in a place that is secure and easy to access when you are at home. For example, you might keep it in your house in a drawer that is specifically designed for it or in a box close to the door. Or, you might give a spare key to a neighbor or friend that you are confident in.
Contact your dealer and ask whether they can help you. They'll probably be able to deactivate the stolen key fob so that it won't be able to start your vehicle. This is a straightforward procedure, but it will depend on the particular year and model of vehicle.
You might also want to speak with your insurance company for comprehensive coverage, which covers things like stolen cars with keys inside. This type of cover is typically included in all auto policies, but it's best to check your policy specifically for more information.
If your car was taken with keys inside, you should also file a police report. It is important to inform the lender that you own a financed or leased car. You may be able to receive an additional set of keys or replacements for lost ones via the insurance claim.
To prevent having your car stolen with the keys in it in the future, you must always lock the doors of your vehicle, even if you're away for a short time. Consider installing antitheft devices in your vehicle to make it harder for thieves to gain access to it. This includes the locking of the steering wheel and brake pedal locks. Parking in well-lit, secure locations is also recommended. Do not leave valuables in your vehicle or the title.
Contact your insurance company
If you have filed a police report, you should contact your insurance company immediately. Many insurance companies have online platforms that make it easy and quick read more to complete the procedure. Avoid delays and back and forth by calling your agent directly rather than through the call center. Be prepared to answer any questions they may have. They will ask you to provide details about your car, including the year, make and model as well as the color and license plate number, as well as where and when it was taken and any other relevant details. They will also inquire if the vehicle has any extra features, such as a GPS system or other security measures.
If you have comprehensive insurance, your vehicle will be covered even if keys are not left in the vehicle. If you only have liability insurance, your car will not be paid for. It is for this reason that you should have a full coverage on your car.
Typically, your car insurance will cover the cash value of your stolen vehicle which is the value that was in the market for the vehicle at the time of theft, less any applicable deductible. You will most likely be asked to provide a third-party assessment of your vehicle so keep one on file or find one online.
After the claim has been processed, you could be granted a waiting period. It will differ from insurer to insurer. During this period your insurance company will be searching for the vehicle to be recovered. If it is found, you will be compensated for the car (minus your deductible).
If you're fortunate the vehicle will be recovered and returned to you within the waiting period. If it isn't, you will be compensated for the cash value of the car you lost (minus your deductible). You can use the money to purchase a brand new car if you plan to. Be aware that any claims you file on your insurance policy will increase the cost of your insurance. Contact your agent if you're not sure whether you should submit an claim.