Aftermarket vehicle accessories often underprotected

DENVER, Jan. 23 — Filing an insurance claim after an auto accident is a bad time to find out that a car is under-insured. However, when aftermarket vehicle accessories, such as upgraded car stereos, high end chrome wheels, grill guards or even ski racks are added to a vehicle without changing insurance coverage, most vehicles are not covered for those items.

"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."

AAA Colorado has designated January as Insurance Review Month to remind everyone that a review of all insurance coverage is critical for safety, security and peace of mind. Following are some tips on obtaining extra coverage for aftermarket vehicle accessories from AAA Colorado, one of the largest agencies in the state specializing in personal lines insurance.

If your vehicle has one of the following aftermarket products, you might not be properly insured to replace it in the event of an accident.

• Cars
  • Chrome, alloy or magnesium wheels
  • Citizens band or two-way radios
  • Stereos, CD players, CD changers, amplifiers or speakers
  • GPS navigation devices
  • Televisions which are permanently installed
  • Engine, drive train, suspension, mechanical or body components intended to enhance vehicle performance or appearance.
  • T-bar roofs, roll bars, light bars and grill
  • Custom wide tread tires or racing slicks
  • DVD players not installed by the vehicle manufacturer (must be permanently installed.)
  • Scanning monitor receivers
  • Telephones which are permanently installed
  • Ski racks, storage racks or compartments, such as Yakima or Thule.
• Trucks and Vans
  • Special carpeting, furniture or insulation
  • Light bars, grills
  • Off-road accessories
• Motorcycles
  • Electronic equipment, antennas, and other devices used exclusively to send or receive audio, visual or data signals or play back recorded media, other than those which are original to the vehicle.
  • Any permanently installed parts such as aftermarket windshields, handlebars, and seats.
  • Trike Conversion kits
  • Sidecars
  • Trailers designed to be pulled behind a motorcycle or off-road vehicle
  • Custom paint, exhaust or plating
  • Storage compartments/racks

Most insurance carriers offer additional coverage for aftermarket accessories. However, some require photographic proof and receipt of the aftermarket accessory purchase and installation in order to provide additional coverage. Some carriers allow items to be covered up to a set amount, say $2,000 without receiving additional approval.

"Just like any product or service, it's important for consumers to shop around for the best insurance that fits their unique needs," says Jim Rookard. "Most importantly, though, is that consumers should always consider what they are purchasing and determine if it provides proper coverage at a competitive price. The cheapest insurance may represent the least value when you need service or have a claim."

For more insurance information, visit www.aaa.com and click on "Insurance/Financial."

AAA Colorado has more than 500,000 members in Colorado and is an advocate for safety and security for all travelers. As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides nearly 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services, as well as member-exclusive savings. AAA can be visited on the Internet at www.aaa.com. For more information about insurance questions, please call 877-244-9790.

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