What To Do If Your Car Has Been Stolen

Having your car stolen or lost can be one of the scariest moments in life.

Have you ever returned to where you last parked, only to find your car gone? You look around, wondering if you maybe left it somewhere else, walking up and down for a few minutes, only to slowly realise your car really is gone.

You think- has it been stolen?

And then- what should I do?

Well, we’re here to help.

What should I do if my car is stolen?

Generally, you should make a police report and call your insurer to notify them of the loss. But before all that, the first thing you should really do is not panic.

Take a moment to think of where you last parked. Double check that you haven’t forgotten anything else; like the parking level or colour of the parking lot. Next, check for any signs that your car has been towed- it doesn’t hurt to check with the parking authorities.

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t find your car… it probably has been stolen.

Next, make a police report immediately or within 24 hours, since you’re dealing with an actual crime. You may need to include the following details in your report:

• Your car registration number, model, make, year and colour.
• The time and place you last saw your car.
• Any other identifying features of your car.

Next, you’ll need to call your insurer to make a theft car claim. Provide all the details they ask for to help speed up the investigation and claims process.

Important Documents when making a Theft claim

1. Claims form
2. Copy of Identification Card Driving License (Policy Holder)
3. Copy of Identification Card and Driving License driver (other than Policy Holder)
4. Copy of Registration Card
5. Copy of Hire Purchase Agreement
6. Police Report
7. Policy Cover Note

A theft claim may take up to 6 months or more if your insurer needs more information from you. However, in most cases, claims are settled as soon as the theft investigation is finalised without any other issues.

What happens if your stolen vehicle is found?

If your vehicle has been found while your theft claim is being processed, your insurer will contact you to explain what to expect when getting your car back. First, a police officer will carry out a risk assessment and inspect the car.

Please note that if you are informed that your vehicle is recovered, do NOT take possession of your car from any authority/party unless authorized by the police and immediately notify your insurer for them to make proper arrangements to conduct an independent survey of your vehicle and/or to take possession of your recovered vehicle.

To Avoid your Claims being Rejected

You can file a car theft claim as long as your insurance policy covers theft. For our P&O policies, you can file for a car theft claim if you have Comprehensive, PrOmilej or Third Party, Fire & Theft.

Your insurer will not pay for claims if you willingly hand over your car to someone else. Examples that insurers will not pay for include:

• Lending your car to your non-named driver.
• Leaving your car unattended with keys left in your car.
• Handing over and leaving you car to Valet Parking, Car Service or Car Wash centres.

Tips to Prevent Your Car from Being Stolen

Even if you have a front gate, you should still stay cautious. Some extra ways of protecting your car include:

• Parking in busy, well-lit parking lots.
• Ensure your car is locked and windows are closed before you leave.
• Keep your valuables or personal items out of sight… or better yet, take them with you.
• Never leave your car’s engine running unattended… even for a minute!
• Install a car alarm or GPS tracking system.