We previously shared 10 Tips to prevent car break-ins. However, we know that no matter how much we try to prevent break-ins from happening, they still do… and often at the victim’s expense.
So we thought we’d provide you a quick guide to help if you discover that your car was broken into.
Don’t Panic
We understand that someone violated your personal space. Things may have been stolen, and your vehicle may have been damaged. This can cause a lot of grief and anxiety.
Also knowing the appropriate process to address these circumstances can better prepare you to deal with it…as it can help ease that anxiety and uneasiness, and can help you stay focused.
Remember that in most break-ins, most likely no one has been hurt or injured and most items can be replaced. As frustrating as all can be, you’re ok, and that’s what matters.
Document
Take photos of the damage to your car, and make a list of everything that was stolen. Do this as soon as you can as both the police and insurance company will ask you what was stolen.
Call Police and File a Report
Once you catch your breath, call the police and tell them what happened. Ask them to report it and get the police report number.
Most likely the police may send a patrol car, and/or a forensic specialist out to collect more detailed information for their report.
Having the following available to file the police report will help the process move faster:
- Your driver’s license
- Vehicle registration
- Car Insurance ID card
- Photos of the damage
- List of stolen items
Depending on the items stolen, you may want to take the following actions:
Deactivate your Cell Phone
If your phone was stolen, contacting your carrier will help deter against identity theft, cyber theft, or even more.
If any items have your birthdate or address
Contact Equifax, Experian or TransUnion and place a 90-day fraud alert on your credit record. Here’s more from the Federal Trade Commission on placing a fraud alert.
If your credit or debit cards were stolen,
contact the bank or card issuers. Block access to those accounts and get replacement cards.
File an Insurance Claim
Now that you have your police report, photos and list of stolen items, it’s time to contact your insurance company and file a claim.
As you are reading this, you may want to review what your insurance company does cover, and what it doesn’t, along with what your deductible is. You may discover that filing a claim may raise your insurance premium.
Get Car Fixed
We know that dealing with repairs and replacing your stolen items can be frustrating.
Your auto insurance can help you with the process of getting your car fixed and they often have recommendations, or you can call us and we can quickly replace your auto-glass.
Call Us To Schedule An Appointment…
We are available 6 am – 11 pm 7 Days a week. Dial 707-590-1311 or just click the button to call us. We are here for you.
