According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, 93,000 vehicles were stolen in this country in 2010 and at least 250 cars are stolen every day. Although the number of vehicle thefts is in decline due to stolen vehicle task forces and factory-installed anti-theft devices, car theft remains a significant risk to all car owners.
Whether you left your vehicle in a parking lot or on your own property, discovering it’s been stolen is a horrible experience. It’s normal to feel confused, angry, and frustrated after discovering you car has been stolen. At Lanes Insurance, we hope this never happens to you, but in case it does we guarantee adequate coverage at the best possible rates. Comprehensive coverage is very affordable, and if your car has an anti-theft system or an anti-theft device installed you’re eligible for a discount.
Call Your Local Police Department
Thieves often switch the license plates between a stolen car and another vehicle, making it more difficult for the police to recover. The sooner you report the theft to the police, the greater the likelihood your vehicle will be recovered.
The police will ask for the following information when they take your report:
- Your contact information
- The year, make, and model of your vehicle
- Your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- The time and location you last saw your vehicle
They will then explain the steps they will take in gathering evidence that will hopefully lead to the recovery of your vehicle and tell you what to expect in terms of communication. Remember to get the name of the officer or officers at the scene and be sure to record your police report number.
Contact Your Alberta Auto Insurance Agent
Contact us or your Alberta Auto Insurance agent immediately to file a claim. We will need the same information you provided to the police: the name of the police officer, their depot, and the police report number. Your insurance agent will begin processing your claim and inform you what to do next.
If you have comprehensive coverage, you are protected against theft and your Alberta Auto Insurance will replace the car’s monetary value so you can purchase another, similar vehicle. The amount you receive will be your car’s actual value minus your deductible. Be sure to ask your insurance agent how long it will take for you to receive this amount, and inquire about rental car coverage.
Since there is always a chance the police will recover your vehicle, you may want to rent a vehicle for the first several weeks after your car is stolen before you purchase another vehicle.
Follow Up With Your Insurance Agent and the Police
If you haven’t heard from them, call the police department for an update after a few weeks. If your car was stolen in a big city, you may find it easier to get information by communicating directly with the officers assigned to your case.
Follow-up with your insurance agent to check the status of your claim as needed.
Coverage For the Contents of Your Vehicle
Only items that are permanently attached to the vehicle are covered by an auto policy. Contents are covered by your home insurance. While you wait for the police to arrive, make a list of the contents of your vehicle while the details are still fresh in your mind, and contact your home insurance provider immediately for replacement.
We are proud to be your chosen Alberta Auto Insurance company. If you’d like to request a quote or have any questions, please contact Lanes Insurance today. We’ll get you covered!
