You might not worry about your car while you have it parked at home. However, there are almost as many security risks in your own driveway as there are on the interstate. Damage, theft and vandalism risks might all beckon. What can you do to avoid problems like these?
Home safety for vehicle involves quite a few steps. However, they are often relatively easy to complete. Sometimes, you don’t even have to think twice to take a few of these precautions after you pull into the driveway.
Keeping the Car Safe at Home
Your car will probably sit by itself while you are in your house. Make sure, when you leave it alone, that you do so in a safe way.
· Keep the car locked at all times. Leave the windows rolled up as well. Arm the car’s security system.
· If you have a carport or a garage, park the car under the cover whenever you are at home. Keep the area clear to make room for an appropriate parking space.
· Never leave the garage door open, even if the car is inside or outside the garage. Even if you are at home, the door should remain closed.
· When pulling into the driveway, leave ample space between yourself and other vehicles, structures or shrubbery.
· Try to avoid parking under trees. Yes, trees can shield the car from the elements. However, if branches or limbs fall on the car, they could damage it.
· Do not park on the street, unless this is the only place you can park. Pull as close to the home as possible.
· Do not leave personal belongings on display in the car, especially purses, cell phones or money. These can be quick enticements to thieves.
· Installing a home camera or motion-activated light system can help you know if someone steps onto your property or goes near the car.
If something does happen to your car, your car insurance might be able to help you make repairs. Your policy might offer comprehensive damage insurance. If the car gets damage from hazards that are not related to accidents, this policy can pay for repairs or a replacement vehicle. Non-accident hazards are usually those that might happen in your driveway, like vandalism or falling limb damage.
Comprehensive coverage is not mandatory or automatic protection on most policies. Therefore, you’ll need to ask your insurers to add this coverage to your policy. Your agent can help you structure your comprehensive limits to pay for the car’s losses.