5 Steps to Take if Your Car is Broken Into
It is a terrifying feeling. As you’re leaving the store, you find your car window is smashed and your things have been taken. As scary as it is, try to keep calm, take a deep breath, and follow these five important steps to take when your car has been broken into.
1. Call the police
The first step is obvious. Call the police and report what has happened. Depending on the severity of the situation, they may or may not come to the scene. If they are coming to inspect the damage, refrain from touching or moving anything inside the vehicle unless it is absolutely necessary. If you speak to the police on the phone and they do not come to the scene, ask them to make a report and ask for the report number - having a police report will be very important if you plan on filing an insurance claim.
2. Cancel cards and your phone
If your wallet, purse, or cell phone were in the vehicle and were stolen, call your cell phone provider, bank, and credit card company as soon as possible to report the theft. It won’t take a thief long to start making big purchases on a card or racking up a huge phone bill, so call to cancel as soon as possible. Your bank will help to secure your account, and you can often get a new replacement card very quickly.
3. Document the evidence
Take photos of the scene and take stock of what was stolen. If you will be filing an insurance claim, this proof will be especially important. Make sure you photograph all damage, inside and out, and make a list of everything that was taken. Be extremely thorough, as it is hard to change an insurance claim once it is in process.
4. Talk to your insurance company
If valuable items have been stolen or your car is damaged, you might want to file an insurance claim. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to make sure you are following the correct steps. Your car insurance should cover damage to your vehicle, while home insurance, renter’s insurance, or your car insurance should cover the stolen items. Depending on your insurance deductible and the value of the lost goods/damages, it may or may not be worth filing a claim, as filing a claim may also result in your premiums going up. Whether you file a claim or not, it is best to speak to your insurer to make sure you know your options and are as prepared as possible should you decide to file.
If the thief damaged the locks or ignition of your car, you may need to speak to a qualified locksmith about how to re-secure your vehicle. If you had house keys in your vehicle that were stolen, it is extremely important to make an appointment as soon as possible to make sure you and your family are secure at home.
