Can you imagine how it would feel to park your car somewhere and find it missing later? Many people experience this tragedy on a daily basis. In fact, according to CNBC.com, “approximately 800,000 to 1 million automobiles are stolen in the United States each year.” These numbers are extraordinary, making theft a common occurrence across the country. This also means that the insurance claim process can be quite complex and tedious.

If you are prepared to report your car as stolen, there are some important things to know about car insurance coverage for stolen vehicles, as well as the investigation process for car theft claims. Read on to learn what you need to know about filing a stolen car insurance claim.

FIRST: Was your car really stolen?

Once you have noticed that your car is missing, it is wise to reconsider all possibilities before making an insurance claim and police report. You can check for parking signs to see if it has been towed, ask your friends and family if they borrowed your vehicle, or call your car loan company to see if it was repossessed. When there is no other possible reason why your car was lost, then it is safe to go ahead with filing an insurance claim and a police report.

Insurance coverage for stolen vehicles

To have insurance coverage in the event your car is stolen, you must have comprehensive coverage on your insurance policy. This is something that is required in all states. If your vehicle is stolen from your personal property, you cannot present it under your homeowners insurance policy; You must have a comprehensive auto policy to cover the loss.

Auto theft claims process

When you are sure that your car has been stolen, you should report it to the police immediately for documentation. At the same time, you must notify your auto insurance company. Most carriers operate a 30-day claim waiting period to see if the car is ever recovered, which usually begins on the date of theft. Also, comprehensive coverage does not cover personal belongings that are stolen from a vehicle. Items such as phones, computers, clothing, jewelry, equipment, and more may be covered in a homeowners or renters insurance policy, but not in an auto policy.

Car theft investigations

Vehicle theft claims are taken very seriously by insurance companies. Appraisers investigate them closely to make sure there is no fraud. Filing a fraudulent theft insurance claim is a serious crime punishable by jail time, fines, and more. They will record all customer conversations and ask very detailed and intrusive questions. As long as you are not committing a crime, you should not take the investigation process personally. The insurance adjuster is simply doing his job.

Hire a criminal defense attorney for fraud charges

Fraud offenses are charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the details of a person’s case. If you were recently arrested for facing fraud charges in Indiana, you face hefty fines, imprisonment, and other severe penalties. The best step you can take to ensure your rights and protect your freedoms is to call in a licensed fraud attorney for tough and aggressive criminal defense; otherwise, you risk being sentenced to the highest levels of punishment in Indiana.