Do I Need Special Coverage for GPS, a DVD Player and Other Electronic Equipment in My Vehicle?

In some ways, auto insurance policies are like snowflakes. No, they aren’t cold or wet, and they sure don’t fall from the sky, but they are unique and tailored to each individual policyholder.

That makes it impossible to answer certain questions with a blithe yes or no response. Instead, we have no choice but to refer you to your policy or agent. One example of a question that can’t be answered with a simple yes or no is that of the need for special coverage for GPS, DVD players and other electronic equipment in your vehicle.

You see, cars and driving aren’t exactly like they used to be. There once was a time when watching television in a car would have involved the transport of a bulky, antennae-clad television with the world’s longest extension cord.

Modern technology has a short shelf life and a faster-than-ever evolution speed, and car insurance policies can’t always keep up. Generally speaking, your auto insurance policy probably offers some protection against the loss of personal property in your vehicle under certain circumstances.

Beyond that, drivers can generally expect that electronic items (no matter how new-fangled they are) actually installed in the automobile so that they are considered “part” of the vehicle are covered in the policy. Some removable items, such as CB antennas and portable DVD players, may not be or may only be if you have comprehensive coverage.

As always, no matter what is covered in your policy, you still need to consider both your deductible and limit as well. For instance, let’s say that you have a $500 stereo installed in your car and it is stolen, but your deducible per instance is $1,000. In this case, the loss of the stolen stereo falls under the heading of your deductible. Likewise, when the sum value of all the electronic items you add to upgrade your vehicle exceeds your policy limits, you will be financially responsible for their replacement.

Another type of protection you may want to consider is a Mechanical Breakdown Protection plan. Sometimes referred to as an extended warranty, this plan covers the cost to repair your vehicle when it breaks down. So if you just purchased a new vehicle, or if your warranty is about to expire, you need to speak with one of our agents. Just call us at (800) 807-6871 or complete our no obligation Quote form. It will only take a couple of minutes and it could save you thousands of dollars down the road.