What Does Theft Attempted Mean on a Car?
If you’ve checked your car’s insurance declaration page or received a bill from your insurance company and noticed the phrase "theft attempted" or "attempted theft," you’re probably wondering what it means. In this article, we’ll break down what "theft attempted" means on a car and what it can mean for your insurance coverage.
What Does Theft Attempted Mean?
Theft Attempted Defined
Theft attempted is a term used to describe an incident where a car has been partially or completely stolen, but the perpetrator was interrupted, apprehended, or fled the scene before the car could be fully taken away. This can include cases where the thief:
• Attempted to hotwire the car
• Break into the car
• Tied up the vehicle
• Stole or damaged car parts
• Tried to steal the entire vehicle but was interrupted before they could drive away
What Happens in a Theft Attempted Case?
When a car is stolen, the theft is considered a completed offense. However, when there is an attempted theft, the situation is different. The police may not recover the stolen property, or the thief may not even have managed to take control of the vehicle. This means that the insurance company may not be able to fully cover the loss or damage caused by the theft attempt.
How Theft Attempted Affects Car Insurance
Insurance Policy Coverage
In most insurance policies, theft attempted is not a covered event, unless you have specifically included coverage for attempted theft. Some insurance policies may include attempted theft coverage at an additional cost.
If your policy does include attempted theft coverage, the insurer may pay out for a portion of the damage or loss, up to a certain limit or percentage. This can vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy.
Additional Factors to Consider
In addition to whether your policy includes attempted theft coverage, other factors may impact the extent of the coverage, such as:
• Policy limits: The amount of coverage for attempted theft may be capped at a certain amount or percentage of the vehicle’s value.
• Exclusions: Some policies may exclude certain types of damages or losses, such as cosmetic damage or damage to accessories.
• Investigation and reporting: How quickly the theft is reported and how thoroughly the insurance company investigates the incident may impact the extent of coverage.
What to Do If Your Car is Vandalized or Attempted Theft Occurs
Report the Incident
Notify the police immediately and report the incident to your insurance company. Provide detailed information about the incident, including:
• Description of the damage or missing parts
• Time and date of the incident
• Location of the incident
• Any witnesses or security footage
Get an Inspection
Have an inspection conducted by a police officer or an insurance claims adjuster to assess the damage or loss. This can help determine the extent of the coverage and identify any additional damages or issues.
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of:
• Photographs of the damage or missing parts
• Receipts for repairs or replacements
• Letters or estimates from repair shops or appraisers
Conclusion
Theft attempted on a car can have significant implications for your insurance coverage and financial losses. It’s essential to understand what is covered under your policy and report incidents promptly. By providing detailed information, documenting everything, and consulting with your insurance company, you can ensure that your rights are protected and any necessary compensation is received.
