Does auto insurance cover theft of vehicle if you leave keys in car?

Question

i got my car stolen from my home driveway in the middle of the night. i carry full coverage with $500 deductible and also gap (guaranteed asset protection) but could not find my keys the next morning either. i feel sure i could not have left them in the car (08 accord) because it dings extremely loud and that is something that i never do. i always lock my car and i am mystified as to where the keys are. i am concerned that my policy will not cover me if it is determined that keys may likely have been in the vehicle. thoughts or advice?

Answer 1

I am so glad to see that nobody has answered and told you that your policy won't cover you if you leave your keys in your car.

I can confirm that Lawnboy's answer is dead on. You don't need to know anything else.

Answer 2

You claim will be covered. I used to adjust property/auto claims. It is common for people to leave their keys in the vehicle while it is running to jet into a convenience store only to turn around and watch someone else drive away in their car. Make sure you have a police report and try to locate your keys. Complete the theft affidavit that your insurance company provides to you. Most carrier generally wait 30 days before the settle theft claims to see if the vehicle is recovered. Remember, your adjuster is not only trying to help you resolve your claim but they are trying to prevent fraud and help keep your insurance rates down. If you story smells fishy they could have an SIU or special investigator assigned to your file which could stretch out your claim time.

Answer 3

Yes, you are covered.  Be honest with your insurance company, don't start making up silly stories when you are asked how many sets of keys you have, and there whereabouts.  They may refer the file over to their Special Investigation Unit, to determine if you were having a difficult time making your payments, and you were some how involved with the theft of your vehicle.

Answer 4

Depends on your policy. The company I work for does cover you for being stupid but some insurers absolutely will NOT cover a vehicle when stolen if the keys were left in the ignition or anywhere in the car. Pull out your policy and start reading...