What To Do If Your Car Is Stolen

According to the FBI, during every 40-second period of 2009, one vehicle was stolen. And while some areas of the country are more prone to incidents of vehicle theft than others, this is still not a comforting average.
It’s more than possible that you could be one of the lucky few who never have to deal with auto theft, but just in case you do end up a stolen vehicle statistic, here are some tips to help you react to the situation properly.

• Note your surroundings: Take a moment to look around and take note of what you see. Is there broken glass around or other evidence of a break in? Your insurance company may wish to know this before they get a copy of the police report. But remember, look—don’t touch.
• Go to a safe area: If you are exposed to the elements or traffic, you may want to get to a safe, sheltered area before you call the policy to report the crime. Just make sure you stay near the location so you can show the police where you car was before it was stolen.
• Call the police: Have your driver’s license, license plate, a list of all the items in your car, available.
• Call your agent or insurance company: Your agent, or insurance company, will want to know many of the same details as the police ask you for. They will also want to know that you have already called the police to report the theft, so be sure to call them after you have.
• Call your lender: If you have an outstanding loan on the vehicle then your lender is just as exposed to risk as you are. Call them to let them know that the vehicle has been stolen and that you have reported it to both your insurer and the police.

As always, a good offense is the best defense. Make sure to have your car equipped with the appropriate anti-theft mechanisms and always follow safe vehicle storage techniques.
Be sure to check with your Oxford Insurance Group agent for tips on keeping your Chicago Auto Insurance rates low.