Can You Make a Claim For the Cost of a Car Key Replacement?
If you have comprehensive coverage on your automobile insurance, you might be able to get a new key. It will depend on the terms and conditions of your policy however.
It is not unusual for insurance companies to pay theft claims without checking the forensic details of the keys.
Theft
Theft of car keys is a serious problem, because it could cause you to be without the vehicle you need. You may have to find another way of transport. Fortunately, your car insurance policy may help you in this situation. If you decide to make an insurance claim will be contingent on the nature of the incident as well as the specific terms and conditions specified in your policy. If you're in a car crash and your keys were within the vehicle, it may not be considered theft because the vehicle was already being used by another person. In this scenario it is advisable to contact the police immediately.
Car thefts that result from locked vehicles and keys left in are on the rise, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). These incidents can result in higher insurance premiums for auto insurance therefore it is important to know what your policy covers.
Most car insurance policies don't cover the cost of replacement keys in the event they are lost or damaged even if comprehensive insurance is included. However, certain plans provide roadside assistance that covers key replacement up to a specific limit. For this reason, it is essential to take a close look at the importance of your car's keys and how much it will cost to replace them prior to making a claim.
Modern "smart" key systems use commercial radio waves to communicate with sensors and control modules, explains Thatcham Research. This system is called the controller area network or CAN. The criminals have found an opportunity to steal the signal and then unlock or start the vehicle from outside. To accomplish this, thieves typically operate in pairs. One thief uses a transmitter to pick up the signal while the second tries to steal the key fob.
Also, personal property inside the car is typically covered by renters or homeowners insurance. It may be worth it to replace your car's remote key fob when the cost is less than the deductible, or if you anticipate future insurance premium increases associated with filing a claim.
Damage
If a car key is lost and not replaced quickly the owner could be faced with costly charges to repair damaged locks. The cost of repairs can be more than the cost of replacing keys.
If you have insurance coverage that is comprehensive on your vehicle it may help to cover some damage. However, this is not always the case. It is important to speak with your agent for auto insurance and read your policy closely to be aware of what is covered.
Most car insurance policies do not cover keys that are stolen. Only if you have roadside protection can you get coverage for stolen keys. In these cases the insurance company will be able for towing your vehicle to a locksmith to create a new car key. However, the driver is still accountable for the new key.
Check with your renters or home insurance to see if personal property is covered. You might be able to file a claim if your key is lost inside a backpack or purse. You will have to pay a deductible, which is typically higher than the cost of replacing a key.
Generally, it's not worth the hassle to file an insurance claim for lost keys. The cost of replacing a key is typically higher than your deductible, and a lot of keys are programmed, which can be expensive.
If you decide to file a claim with an insurance company, make sure to keep all check here receipts. If your claim is accepted by your insurance company, you could be reimbursed. However it will depend on your policy.
Contact your local Hibbs independent agent if you have concerns about whether your insurance for your home or automobile will cover lost or stolen keys. We can help you find the best auto, home, or renters' insurance to protect your family. We can help you compare quotes for your insurance policy and select the best option for your specific needs.
Replacement
It is crucial to think about your options in case you lose or have had your car keys stolen. The kind of car key you own will determine the insurance policy that will provide for its replacement and how much it could cost. Also, you should think about whether filing a claim on your car insurance will affect your insurance premiums.
If your car is a newer model with an electronic key fob, you'll likely need to visit the dealer to get an alternative key made. In this case the dealer will require proof of ownership such as the title or registration of the vehicle in order to create a replacement key for you. It's important that you keep an exact copy in a secure location of your car registration and purchase documents.
In some instances, comprehensive insurance will cover the cost of the replacement of a stolen or lost key. However, you must be prepared to pay the minimum deductible, which will likely be higher than the cost of a new key. If you have an ignition that is standard, it is possible to get a replacement at an auto parts or locksmith store.
Another option for car owners with a stolen or lost key is to file a claim through their home or renters insurance. This is because personal property coverage under these policies usually includes a specific amount for the loss of keys, or other items which are kept at your home.
You can also call your local garage and inquire whether they have the tools needed to reprogram your key fob. Some garages provide on-site key programming that can save you money as well as time. However, it's important to keep in mind that these companies will not be equipped to handle more sophisticated kinds of smart keys. They might require sending the key fob away for reprogramming.
In the majority of cases, it's not worth the time and effort to make an insurance claim for a lost or stolen car key. The cost of replacing the key fob will likely exceed the deductible, and it will remain on your record. This could lead to higher insurance premiums at renewal.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you're a smart car owner, you probably have a spare set of keys in a safe place. What happens if they're lost or stolen? It's a frustrating situation, and getting replacements may be even more expensive.
Standard auto insurance policies do not cover car key loss or theft. They might provide some protection under comprehensive or collision coverage, but that's only if your car was in use at the time of the theft. The contents of your vehicle may not be covered. There are policies that cover electronic fobs, but they are not common.
It is typical to file an independent claim with your renters or homeowners insurance for the items you wish to replace in your vehicle. If you have both policies that are bundled and you want to save time by filing both claims together.
Even the most secure locking system could fail over time. It is essential to have an extra key in your possession and to look for wear and tear often.
While it's never ideal to lose your keys, understanding what your options are can ease the burden. Insurance companies offer roadside assistance plans that can provide you with replacement keys if yours are ever stolen. Some of these plans offer free locksmith services and can reprogramme your immobiliser.
Although these services are convenient however, they're not an alternative to the full benefits of a collision or comprehensive auto insurance policy that includes the protection of stolen car keys. You should consult an insurance professional licensed to do so If you have any doubts about your provider's ability to offer this type of insurance. They can also help you in choosing the appropriate policy to meet your budget and needs. Contact us today to receive a free quote. We can help you shop for the best insurance coverage, including car key stolen insurance at affordable rates.