Does Car Insurance Cover Theft in California?

With automotive thefts on the rise throughout the country, we get a lot of customers asking if liability insurance covers theft in California. Whether you live in Huntington Park or northern California, state laws dictate what car insurance covers in theft. Learn more about car theft insurance, if liability insurance covers catalytic converter theft, and more with the finance department at Nissan of Downtown L.A.. 

Does Liability Insurance Cover Theft in California?

Every driver is legally required to carry liability insurance, which is designed to cover the other party if you cause an accident. Liability insurance doesn’t cover theft, just damage and bodily injury to the other party caused by an accident where you are at fault. 

Car Theft Insurance: When Am I Entitled to Coverage? 

South Gate drivers whose cars are stolen in Califonia will have car theft insurance if they have comprehensive coverage. That should cover you up to the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of your vehicle. If your car is damaged due to a break-in, you’ll also be covered. Broken glass, door locks, ignition systems, etc., will be covered under comprehensive insurance. Personal items left in your car, like your wallet, briefcase, surfboard, or smartphone will not be covered under your comprehensive insurance plan. You’ll need to claim them on your homeowners or renter’s insurance. 

Does Liability Insurance Cover Catalytic Converter Theft? 

Bell Gardens and many other spots around Los Angeles have been hotspots for catalytic converter thefts in recent years. Unfortunately, since it only covers damage you cause to vehicles belonging to other drivers in an accident, liability insurance doesn’t cover catalytic converter theft. You will need a full or comprehensive coverage plan to cover catalytic converter theft. 

What to Do When Your Car is Stolen

No matter if your entire vehicle is stolen or just parts, you need to follow these steps as soon as you realize a crime has occurred: 

1. Call the police and give them a detailed description of your vehicle (make, model, color, license plate number, VIN, etc.). Also, let them know when and where you last had your vehicle and any information you have on its anti-theft system, GPS, or other systems to help you locate it more easily.
2. Contact your car and homeowners/renters insurance provider within 24 hours of the theft. They’ll likely want to know about any valuables left in the vehicle and probably also want a copy of the police report.
3. Know that your car may never be found. If it is, have it professionally inspected. The service department at Nissan of Downtown L.A. can do this task.
4. Consider purchasing an anti-theft product/service from our finance team for your next vehicle. 

Get More Info from Nissan of Downtown L.A. in Los Angeles! 

The team at Nissan of Downtown L.A. is here to help, whether your car or catalytic converter has been stolen, or you’re looking for the smartest way to protect your vehicle in case of theft. Visit our car-buying tips for more insurance information.