If your car has been vandalized, you may feel at a loss for what to do. It is a frustrating and often scary experience, but don’t worry – we are here to help. This article will discuss six steps you should take if your vehicle has been vandalized.
How Common Is Car Vandalization?
Unfortunately, car vandalism is quite common. In 2018, over 700,000 vehicles were vandalized in the United States alone. And while it can happen to anyone, certain people are more likely to be targeted. For example, young drivers (ages 16-24) are more likely to have their cars vandalized than any other age group. If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, call a car property damage lawyer in Los Angeles.
Why Do People Vandalize?
There are many reasons why people may vandalize cars. In some cases, it may be a crime of opportunity – someone sees an unlocked vehicle and decides to take advantage. In other cases, it may be personal – the vandal knows who owns the car and deliberately tries to cause damage. And in some cases, it may be due to political or social beliefs – the vandal may target a specific type of car or driver because of what they represent.
Types of Car Vandalizations
Many different types of vandalism can occur to a vehicle. Some of the most common include:
- keying or scratching the paint
- breaking windows
- slashing tires
- spray painting
Car Property Damage
Vandalism is considered property damage and can be classified as either malicious or criminal mischief. Malicious mischief is when the vandal knows their actions would cause damage to your property. Criminal mischief is when the vandal didn’t intend to cause damage but did so anyways. Contact a Los Angeles car damage lawyer to learn more about this.
What are the repercussions?
The repercussions of car vandalism can be both financial and emotional. First, there is the cost of repairing the damage. This can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the extent of the damage. In addition, vandalized cars often have a decreased resale value. And finally, victims often report feeling violated and unsafe after their vehicle has been disabled.
The Cost of Car Vandalism
The cost of repairing vandalism can vary widely depending on the type and extent of the damage. For example, if your car has been keyed, it may cost a few hundred dollars to repair the paint. However, if all four tires have been slashed, you could look at a bill for over $1000.
Assess The Damage
The first step is to assess the damage. This will help you determine what needs to be repaired and how much it will cost. It is essential to take photos of the damage for insurance purposes.
File A Police Report
Next, you should file a police report. This is important for two reasons: first, it will document the incident, and second, it may help catch the perpetrator.
What is in the police report?
The police report will include information about the incident, such as the time and location and a description of the damage.
File An Insurance Claim
Then, you will need to file an insurance claim. Your insurance company will likely cover some of the damages, but it is essential to check your policy.
Repairing The Damage
Once you have taken care of the paperwork, it is time to repair the damage. This may involve taking your car to a body shop or fixing it yourself.
Prevent Future Vandalism
Finally, you should take some steps to prevent future vandalism. This may include installing security cameras or parking in a well-lit area. This can also include signing up for an auto-theft prevention program.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with car vandalism can be a hassle, but by following these steps, you can get through it. Be sure to document the damage, file a police report, and file an insurance claim. Then focus on repairing the damage and taking steps to prevent future vandalism.