Today I’m answering a question I'm asked about once a day- “Are my personal belongings covered if someone breaks into my car?”
Unfortunately, they are NOT covered! Your insurance company might cover a very small amount (maybe around $200 and that's not even enough to replace a car seat, let alone your cell phone or laptop). If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will give you the value of the car minus your deductible, but the items inside are your responsibility.
There are still ways to protect yourself. First, and most obvious, avoid keeping high-ticket items in your car in the first place. This includes things like your laptop, iPad, purse, etc. Don't keep these items in the car over night (especially right now, there's an epidemic of nightly car break ins!!!) If you’re out shopping, keep your doors locked and lock most items away in the trunk.
We all know this isn’t always possible. We forget, we're in a rush, we leave things out in the open, we're carrying in the kids or groceries and forget to lock the doors. And so you also want to make sure you’re covered by carrying Renters or Homeowners insurance, specifically a coverage called OFF PREMISES THEFT. This coverage extends your personal property coverage to items that are stolen away from your home (i.e. your car, a hotel room, a storage unit). Keep in mind, it would be subject to your property insurance deductible. Make sure to discuss with your agent to see if you have this optional coverage.
With a little bit of prevention and great insurance, you’ve won’t have to worry about items being stolen from your car. Have questions? Give us a call to discuss them anytime!
Christina DeSimone is a licensed insurance agent at the DeSimone Agency in Brooklyn, NY. Call or text her today for a no-obligation quote on your insurance at 718-251-3301.
EndFragment
