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Filing a claim

Are you sure it's insured?

INSURANCE-Filing an insurance claim after an accident is a bad time to find out that a vehicle is under-insured. Drivers who have added aftermarket vehicle accessories, such as upgraded sound systems, custom wheels or even ski racks, are sometimes unaware that their insurance coverage must also be updated.

"If the vehicle's customization isn't included on the application, those additional items may not be covered in the event of a loss," says Jim Rookard, Director of Insurance Services for AAA Colorado. "That can be a very expensive omission and can create a very angry vehicle owner."

If your vehicle has any of the following aftermarket products, check with your insurance agent that it is covered on your current policy:

Chrome, alloy or magnesium wheels; custom wide-tread tires or racing slicks.
Citizens band or two-way radios; scanning monitor receivers.
Stereos, CD players/changers, amplifiers or speakers.
Custom engine, drive train, suspension, mechanical or body components intended to enhance vehicle performance or appearance.
T-bar roof, roll bars, light bars and grill, off-road accessories.
Permanently installed DVD player, telephone or television.
Ski racks, storage racks or compartments.
Special carpeting, furniture or insulation.
Custom paint, bodywork, decals, exhaust or plating.
On motorcycles: aftermarket windshield, handlebars, seat, trike conversion kit, sidecar or trailer.

Most insurance carriers offer additional coverage for aftermarket accessories, and some allow items to be covered up to a set amount, say $2,000, without receiving additional approval. Photographic proof and a receipt of the purchase and installation may be required. As always, shop around for the most appropriate, cost-effective coverage for your needs.