Steps to Take If Your Car Has Been Burglarized

Here’s what you should do after someone has broken into your car.

Discovering that your car has been burglarized is a terrifying situation that most drivers do not want to even think about.  Unfortunately, this is a very real threat that drivers all over the country face.  This is why it’s so important that you prepare yourself to handle this situation.  Here are some of the steps that you will have to take after someone has broken into your car.

Document the Scene

As soon as you recognize that your car has been broken into, take pictures or videos to document the scene.  You should focus in on any damage that your car has sustained.  At this point, you should also start making a list of the items that have been stolen out of your car.

File a Police Report

Most insurance providers will require an official police report of the burglary when you file a claim, so you should call the police to report the crime.  If an officer is coming to you, do not move your car until they arrive.  In some cases, the police will require you to come to the station to file the report, so make sure you verify your next steps with your local police.  When filing your report, you will need your driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, the photos of your car’s damage, and the list of missing items.

Cancel/Freeze Your Accounts

If your wallet was stolen during the break-in, make sure to contact your bank immediately to cancel your debit and credit cards.  This will limit the thief’s access to your money.

File Your Insurance Claims

Once you have taken the previous steps, you need to contact your insurance provider to make your claim.  If your car sustained damage, then it will be covered under the comprehensive portion of your auto insurance.  Your stolen possessions will be covered by your homeowners or renters insurance, so long as the missing items were not permanently affixed to your car.  For instance, your insurance will cover things like stolen phones or a handbag, but will not cover things like a stolen car stereo.

These are some of the steps that you will have to take after someone has broken into your car.  Want to ensure that you have the right auto insurance to protect against car break-ins?   Then contact the professionals at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency.  Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.