The Top Stolen Keys Experts Have Been Doing Three Things
Car Thefts Caused by Keys Left in Car
Car thefts resulting from owners leaving their keys inside their vehicles are increasing. This can be an expensive and frustrating experience.
If you have comprehensive coverage on your insurance policy (other than liability), then yes.
1. Check your bags and pockets
It can be frustrating to go to your bag or pocket and not find your car keys. When you're rushing, it is easy to lose things. It is easy to get distracted and forget your car keys. Even if you are careful it's possible to lose your keys.
This is especially true for newer cars with key fobs that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle. Some people have been victims of "Relay attacks," where a thief is waiting near your home and uses equipment to capture the signal from your key fob. The signal is then sent to a accomplice who is waiting outside your house with the device that can unlock the car. This type of theft occurs more often than you think, and it can be carried out with just a smartphone app.
After you've inspected all the usual places, make sure you check your pockets and bags. Included in this are the pockets on your jacket, pants and any bags that you may have. You may also check for places you wouldn't normally put things, such as the bottom of a purse or inside your shoes. You can also ask your family or friends if they've got the keys, especially if this is your first time you've lost keys.
If you can't locate them, you can go through your day to determine the place you might have put them. You may have put them down somewhere while grabbing food, or you may have reached inside the bag and accidentally tossed your keys out. Sometimes, they're hidden from view, such as under a couch cushion or in the mail pile.
Don't keep your spare keys in your vehicle, and don't carry one keychain that can hold both your car keys and your house keys. You are more likely to lose them, because thieves will search your vehicle for these items and assume that you have them. Notifying the theft as quickly as possible will help the police find the thief and also save money on your auto insurance in the event that you require claims.
2. Check under the car
Keys stolen car key from your home could be costly however, it could also be a serious security risk. The thieves can make use of your car keys to steal your car and access personal items in the trunk. This can lead to identity theft in addition to the loss of your car.
If you put your keys in the ignition of your vehicle thieves could easily turn it on the engine and then drive away. This is why Firestone warns against leaving valuables in your car, particularly if the keys are left in the ignition. If you are forced to leave a cell phone or purse in your car, place it in the trunk. Additionally, keep your car doors secure and lock your keys in the ignition when you're at a convenience store or gas station. These kinds of places usually have lots where drivers linger to get through the store, or leave their cars idle while they shop which makes them a popular target for thieves.
The idea of putting your spare key in the cupholder or tucked under the visor is yet another mistake that can cause theft. A spare key is easily spotted by thieves, and they can use it quickly to gain entry into your car since it's unlikely to be secure.
In the past, losing or misplacing your keys was not a major issue. As cars have evolved, so have keys, and it can be difficult to replace stolen car keys them without the original. A locksmith can duplicate a key from a previous car based on the year and model however, for more modern vehicles, you'll need to visit a dealership or automaker to obtain a replacement.
You should contact your insurer immediately if you have had your car keys stolen. Depending on the state of your car and your insurance policy comprehensive insurance (often called "other than collision") could provide replacement keys. If you've bundled your car and property insurance, you may be able to file both claims at once, saving time and hassle.
3. Take a look back at your day
You make a quick stop at the station to refill your tank and leave your keys in your car while you rush into the shop to pay. You think you've secured an area safe, but thieves know your routines and profit from it.
If you're able relax and bring your rational side back to normal the first step is to retrace your steps. This will not only allow you to find your keys, but also allow you to learn from the mistake you made and avoid it from repeating in the future.
Also, look in the pockets of all the jackets and bags you've been wearing since you last used your keys and take a look at the surfaces where you may have put them, such as on tables or countertops. Consider whether you accidentally knocked your keys out of the bag when you went to take your phone out.
If you still can't find your keys, it could be time to contact the police and report them missing. If you follow these guidelines remain calm and repeat the steps, your chances of recovering keys stolen are high. However, it's worth noting that car thefts are on the rise in the US, and some thieves have even found a way to hack key fobs to leave the vehicle without owner's permission. So, be extra vigilant and use tools like inventory management software to track where your keys are located at all times.
4. Contact the police
It's not only embarrassing to put your car keys inside it however it increases the chances that your car could be stolen. It's essential to find out whether your insurance policy will cover the theft of your vehicle in the event that you have accidentally left your keys inside. This is a good thing: if you have comprehensive (sometimes called "other than collision") coverage your insurance company will take care of the damage to your car as well as any other items that were in it when it was stolen.
It is important to remember that the deductible will be applicable. It's also important to note that the insurance policy will likely conduct a credit screening to make sure there isn't fraud. Additionally the state's DMV might want to be notified of the theft so that they can correct their records, making it harder for the thief to sell your vehicle.
If you have comprehensive coverage the first thing your insurance company will do is to confirm that the car was actually stolen keys what to do (as as opposed to merely a bump or wreck). They will likely then notify the police and be the ones to investigate. You'll also have to provide the police with a detailed description of your car as well as any valuables in it, as well as an original title if you have one.
You can have a bad day if you leave the keys to your car inside. From getting stuck in traffic, to losing your wallet, there are a myriad of things that could happen. It's vital to ensure that your car stolen keyless entry is locked and not leave valuables out in the open.
No matter if you're in Pueblo or not, there's always the possibility that your vehicle will be stolen. It's not just a problem for those living who reside in the top five metropolitan areas that are most likely to be harmed by car thieves, however; anyone can have their vehicle snatched anytime. Call the Rinaldo Law Group to schedule a consultation with an Tampa personal attorney about the aftermath of a recent accident, or any other legal issue.