The theft of a car or boat can be a stressful and costly experience. In Florida, where both personal vehicles and recreational boats are common, it's important to understand your rights and responsibilities when filing an insurance claim for a stolen vehicle or vessel. Below, we break down the essentials of filing a stolen auto or boat insurance claim in Florida, along with key considerations to help protect your interests.
Reporting the Theft
Whether it’s a car or a boat, the first step in any theft claim is reporting the incident to law enforcement. In Florida:
- File a police report immediately and obtain a copy of the report. Most insurance companies require this for processing claims.
- Report the theft to your insurance company as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. Delayed reporting can complicate or even jeopardize your claim.
Stolen Auto Insurance Claims
Comprehensive Coverage is Key
In Florida, comprehensive auto insurance coverage is what typically covers theft. This coverage is optional (unlike the required Personal Injury Protection), but it is essential if you want theft protection. It may also cover theft-related damage (e.g., broken windows or locks) and vandalism.
Common Issues in Auto Theft Claims
- Proof of Ownership and Value: Insurers may require documentation proving ownership and the value of the vehicle, such as registration, purchase receipts, or recent appraisals.
- Fraud Investigation: Stolen vehicle claims are closely scrutinized. Insurers may investigate for potential fraud, especially if there’s a recent policy change, financial distress, or conflicting details.
Recovery of the Vehicle
If your car is recovered before the claim is paid:
- Your insurer may cover repair costs for damages incurred during the theft.
- If the vehicle is deemed a total loss, your insurer will pay the actual cash value (ACV), minus your deductible.
Stolen Boat Insurance Claims
Marine Insurance Policies
Boat insurance policies vary but typically include hull coverage (for physical damage) and theft coverage. Theft may be included in the base policy or may require additional riders, especially for high-value boats or yachts.
Common Issues in Boat Theft Claims
- Securing the Vessel: Insurers may deny a claim if the boat was not properly secured. This includes being stored in an approved location and having theft-deterrent devices (as required by your policy).
- Trailer Theft: If the boat was stolen on a trailer, theft of the trailer may be covered under auto insurance or a separate trailer insurance policy.
- Navigational Limits: Some policies limit coverage to certain navigational areas. Theft occurring outside these boundaries may not be covered.
Special Considerations
- Many insurers require photographs or surveys of the boat as part of underwriting, and this documentation can help support your claim.
- High-value equipment on the boat (e.g., electronics, fishing gear) may need to be itemized separately to be covered.
Tips to Strengthen Your Claim
- Keep detailed records: Store copies of your title, registration, insurance policies, and maintenance records in a safe place.
- Document upgrades and valuables: Take photos and keep receipts for any customizations or equipment.
- Install anti-theft devices: Many insurers offer discounts for alarms, tracking systems, and secure storage, and these can help deter theft.
- Review your policy annually: Ensure your coverage meets your current needs, especially if your vehicle or boat has increased in value.
When to Contact an Attorney
If your claim is denied, delayed, or underpaid, consider speaking with an attorney experienced in insurance disputes. Florida law requires insurers to act in good faith, and policyholders have rights under the Florida Insurance Code. Legal help can be critical when negotiating with insurers or pursuing a bad faith claim.
Conclusion
Auto and boat theft can happen in an instant, but being prepared can make all the difference. Understanding your insurance coverage and the claims process is crucial to recovering your losses. If you’ve experienced a stolen vehicle or boat in Florida and have questions about your rights, speak with a knowledgeable insurance attorney to protect your interests and maximize your recovery.
Have you or someone you know suffered a stolen auto or boat? Contact Florida Insurance Claims Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Miami Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at [email protected] or by text at (305) 929-8935.
