Every year, car drivers become victims of carjacking. Some incidents involve dangerous people and guns, threats, and other types of assault. It is more important to protect your life and get away as soon as possible. With adequate car insurance and the police, you can either get back your car or receive monies to help buy another one. But your life is priceless.
The Insurance Information Institute (III) offers tips to minimize this great risk and danger. As many people have heard, park in well-lit areas and be aware of people coming close to your vehicle for no apparent reason. It is also wise to not stop at ATM machines or isolated areas where you could be pinpointed.
Sometimes a carjacker is not just after the vehicle but what they might have spotted inside it. In Tampa Bay, a recent carjacker wanted all the people’s money, cell phones, iPad, and other items. It is important to remember that if you are out shopping to not leave your bags and other items visible in your vehicle. And if you happen to have a car alarm with a panic button, this is the time to use it to protect yourself and your vehicle if you see someone suspicious or are being carjacked.
The III recommends that drivers keep their vehicle registration card in their wallet, not the glove department. Security devices can also deter a person from stealing a vehicle, whether it is an alarm or steering wheel lock. Cars are also starting to contain more high-tech features, such as the OnStar system. OnStar, for example, has a service where a person can report their vehicle as stolen and then the system can help to locate it with GPS technology. Once located, OnStar can slow the vehicle down or prevent it from starting as authorities recover it.
Otherwise, if your vehicle is stolen, report it to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. Authorities will want to know when the car was stolen, any information you have about potential suspects or witnesses, and your vehicle’s description. Your insurance company will review the comprehensive coverage you have that compensates you should a theft incident happen, vandalism occur, or some part of the car’s built-in features be damaged. An insurance company typically has a set number of days wherein they must see if the authorities can recover your vehicle.
It is recommended to find out about all the parts of your coverage with an experienced insurance agent when deciding on the best auto insurance policy for your money. Getting peace of mind ahead of time about how the policy protects against theft, vandalism, and other non-collision incidents is well worth your time.
Melissa DeAngelo is with Florida auto insurance company and Florida car insurance company, AGIC. To get a quote or learn more visit www.agicinsurance.com.
