Are Guns In Your Vehicle Covered By Car Insurance?
The unthinkable happened. You run into the store after visiting the range and see your vehicle’s broken window upon your return. Tragically, a thief broke into your car and stole your gun. So, is the gun in your vehicle covered by your car insurance?
A gun in your car likely won’t be covered by your car insurance policy– but you have options
First and foremost, anytime a firearm of any kind is stolen from your vehicle, you should notify the police. Filing a police report is the first step in ensuring the authorities know about your potentially dangerous stolen property. Moreover, it is instrumental in your insurance claim.
However, don’t expect to call your car insurance provider to claim your stolen gun. Most policies, including comprehensive car insurance policies, won’t cover the loss of guns. Instead, depending on the specifics of your policy, your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy could cover your stolen gun up to a certain dollar amount.
The same goes for your less-than-lethal personal property. If an opportunist breaks into your car and steals your phone, laptop, purse, or luggage, you might be able to claim with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, per Providence Insurance. Consequently, you may qualify for a payout after covering your deductible, depending on the specifics of the scenario.
What’s more, it’s prudent to secure your firearms in your vehicle when unattended. A locking space like a glove compartment or trunk can add a layer of security beyond simply locking your doors. However, you should know what your state and local laws dictate for proper firearm storage in a vehicle. For instance, some states, like Colorado, prohibit keeping your firearm in your car with a loaded chamber.
Furthermore, avoid advertising your weapon. Cover any Pelican cases or soft-shell rifle cases. Finally, you might want to rethink putting a sticker on your vehicle featuring your favorite gun manufacturer; it could be a dead giveaway that you have a firearm in your vehicle. Frankly, I recommend taking your firearm out of your car when you park it long-term. Any weapon in a car has a potential for theft.
