Most people lose a lot more than a side-view mirror when they’re in an accident. A laptop or custom radio may end up broken, or in some cases, someone may break in and make off with the personal belongings inside the car. Depending on the situation, an auto policy may be able to help residents in Coppell, TX.
Standard Policies
Most standard auto policies don’t cover unattached personal belongings. Attached personal belongings generally refer to items physically built into or installed in the car, such as seat covers or an aftermarket radio. Unattached items, like a cell phone or laptop, typically fall outside standard coverage. That said, there are a few notable exceptions.
The Car Seat Exception
Car seats for children are generally recommended for replacement after any moderate or severe accident, even if they don’t show visible damage. Most insurers actually do cover this under collision or comprehensive coverage, often reimbursing the full replacement cost without factoring in depreciation, since car seats are treated as safety equipment. Coverage details still vary by carrier, so if you need a new car seat for your child, it’s worth checking your specific policy. An agent at The Select Insurance Agency will take the time to review your coverage with you.
Theft and Break-Ins
Some policies cover theft, but many exclude personal belongings entirely or offer only limited coverage, since most people don’t keep particularly expensive items in their car. Other policies may exclude coverage altogether if someone breaks into your vehicle. In those cases, your auto policy would typically cover something like a broken window, while your home or renters insurance would need to cover the personal belongings that were stolen.
We understand this can get confusing, especially since coverage varies from company to company. Agents at The Select Insurance Agency can help you better understand your specific policy. Contact us today. We’re currently serving the Coppell, TX, area.
