Having your car stolen is an unfortunate and traumatic experience. It could have serious financial implications, and you may have to make a stolen car insurance claim. This guide will outline the steps you should take if your car is stolen in the UK, and the procedure to make a successful stolen car insurance claim.
Steps To Take After Your Car Is Stolen
If you realise your car has been stolen, the first thing you should do is call the police. Make sure to give them as much information about your car as possible, such as the make, model, colour, and registration number. They will provide you with a crime reference number which you may need later when making your stolen car insurance claim.
You should also contact your car insurance provider as soon as you can. They can then provide you with the information you need to make a stolen car insurance claim. They will also be able to start the claims process as soon as possible, so that you can receive the compensation you're entitled to in a timely manner.
What Documents Would I Need To Make A Stolen Car Insurance Claim?
When making a stolen car insurance claim, there are certain documents you will need to provide. These include the crime reference number you were given when you reported your car stolen to the police, as well as proof of ownership of the car. This could be a log book, or a bill of sale. You may also need to provide your car insurance policy details, such as the policy number and the date it was taken out.
In some cases, your car insurer may also require you to provide additional documents to support your stolen car insurance claim. These could include a statement from the police confirming your car has been stolen, details of any witnesses or CCTV footage that can provide evidence that the theft was not your fault, and a list of any valuables that were in the car.
How Much Would I Receive From A Stolen Car Insurance Claim?
The amount you would receive from a stolen car insurance claim would depend on the terms of your car insurance policy. Generally, you would receive the market value of your car at the time of the theft, minus any excess you have to pay. This means that if your car is more than three years old, you may not receive the full amount you originally paid for it.
It is important to note that if your car is not recovered after being stolen, the amount you would receive from your stolen car insurance claim may be reduced. This is because the insurance company will take into account the potential for the car to be recovered and sold on. If the car is recovered, the insurance company will usually keep any money they receive from the sale of the car.
What Should I Do If My Stolen Car Insurance Claim Is Rejected?
If your stolen car insurance claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision. You should contact the insurance company and explain why you think the claim should be accepted. They may ask you to provide additional evidence to support your case. If you are still not satisfied with the outcome, you can take your case to the Financial Ombudsman Service, who will investigate the matter further.
Conclusion
Making a stolen car insurance claim can be a complex process. It is important to understand the steps you need to take and the documents you need to provide in order to make a successful claim. You should also bear in mind that the amount you receive from your stolen car insurance claim may be reduced if your car is not recovered. If your claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision.
