A few questions about my stolen and recovered car in California
Here’s what has happened so far:
I reported my car stolen just before Christmas. Thankfully, it was located a few cities away with minimal damage. I rushed to the tow yard as soon as I was notified, arriving just before they were about to close. However, when my husband tried to start the car, it wouldn’t start. We had to return the next day, and I informed the claims representative about the issue and sent him all the pictures we had taken. Unfortunately, he became argumentative and rude, insisting that the car wouldn’t start simply due to a dead battery. He even contacted the tow yard to have them jump-start it.
When we returned the following day, we discovered we couldn’t even unlock the car; my laser-cut key wouldn’t work in the door lock, and twisting it achieved nothing. I updated the claims rep on this new development, and eventually, the car was taken to Copart for an adjuster’s assessment.
I then received a call from an investigator who requested copies of the police report, recovery report, a notarized affidavit of theft, and my phone records from December 10 to January 10. I’ve reached out to my phone provider, and they informed me that the records will take about 30-40 days to obtain. Just for context, my car is a 2011 Lincoln MKX that we purchased outright for just under $10,000 about six months ago. Our insurance policy is fully paid and in good standing, with no prior claims on this vehicle or with this company.
Here are my questions:
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Why are they requesting my phone records?
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How long does this type of claim typically take?
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Do I still need to keep paying my monthly insurance bill?
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; dealing with a stolen car can be really stressful. Here are some answers to your questions:
Why are they asking for my phone records?
Insurance companies might ask for phone records to verify communication about the incident, establish timelines, or confirm details related to your stolen car claim. They could be trying to ensure that all necessary notifications were made, and that there’s no inconsistency in your account of events.
How long does this type of claim usually take?
The duration of a claim can vary widely based on several factors, like the complexity of the case and how quickly necessary information is gathered. Generally, a stolen vehicle claim can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. If there are complications, such as the need for additional documentation or investigations, it might take even longer. Staying in regular contact with your claims rep can help keep the process moving.
Do I still need to continue to pay my monthly insurance bill?
Yes, you should continue to pay your monthly insurance bill. Keeping your policy active is important to avoid any lapses in coverage, which could complicate your claim or leave you unprotected in case of another incident. If your claim is successful, your insurer may reimburse you for any premium payments after your car is officially marked as a total loss, but maintaining coverage is essential in the meantime.
If you have any more questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to ask. Good luck, and I hope everything gets resolved for you swiftly!