What to Do if My Rental Car Is Stolen?
Car theft can happen to anyone. Just imagine how your dream holiday can quickly turn into a nightmare if your rental car gets stolen while in your possession. Knowing exactly what to do in case your hire car is stolen will only increase your chance of getting your vehicle back. VroomVroomVroom has compiled a brief guide to help you.
- Remain calm: Finding out that your rental is stolen can be stressful but panicking won't do any good either. Stay as calm as possible.
- Notify the police: Immediately call the police upon discovering that your rental car is stolen. Provide them with full details such as time / location and any other personal belongings that may have been in the vehicle. Mention that it is a hire car and ask to file a stolen car report.
- Call the rental car company: Inform the supplier about what has happened. Ask for the car's license number and vehicle identification number (VIN). You will need all of these when filling out the police report. This is also the best time to check what level of insurance cover you may have and any excesses likely to be liable.
- Ask for a replacement car: Keep in mind that your rental car company may or may not allow to rent you another car. If not, don't take it personally. Some rental companies may deliver the car to your location, while others will require you to visit the rental location before granting your request for a replacement vehicle.
Will I be charged to pay for the full cost of my rental if it is stolen?
Your financial liability will depend on where you are renting your vehicle, and from which supplier. In Australia, you will be liable to pay for the excess amount specified in your rental agreement. Note that your financial liability is capped at this amount, so you will not have to pay for the full cost of a replacement vehicle.You can learn more about excess here.
Does insurance cover you for theft?
Please note that most insurance companies will not cover you for the theft of a rental vehicle if the theft was a result of negligence. Furthermore, insurance companies will not cover you if you break the rental agreement conditions. If your insurance company does cover theft of a rental car, they will need you to provide a copy of the police report.
Read more about driving a rental car in Australia.
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