(Newswire.net — September 5, 2021) — Theft is the most common crime that takes place around the world. It involves illegitimate change or grabbing of possession of property that does not belong to the person taking it. There are many types of thefts that fall under two main categories petty theft and grand theft.
The key differentiator of the two main theft categories is the value of property stolen. Property theft includes robbery, either armed or unarmed, fraud or identity theft, embezzlement, stealing or holding onto stolen property, car theft, intellectual property theft, and so forth. Here are 6 steps to take when you experience any theft.
1. Get you a Lawyer
A lawyer is your best representation in cases involving grand theft activities such as fraud or intellectual property theft. Fraud or identity theft can occur in two ways, you as a victim or your identity being stolen and used for illegal activities. A lawyer will help explain any options or protective actions you may take before reporting the matter to the police.
When your property is stolen, a lawyer will also help advocate and enquire about the investigation process on your behalf. If you are eligible for any insurance claims, your attorney may also ensure you get your settlement as soon as you can. The internet now makes it easier and quicker to reach out and find the best lawyers in case of property theft.
2. Call the Police
In the case of theft inside your home or offices, you should ensure you are momentarily safe. You can do this by calling the police authorities near you. In case the thieves are still around, hide and call the police the first chance you get.
Reporting your case also sets in motion an investigation process that may assist in recovering your property. Even in petty theft cases, reporting to the police allows them to increase security measures and track crime rates for security planning.
3. Reach Out to Your Insurance Company
After talking to a lawyer and the police, calm down and settle before taking the third step. Informing your insurance company or agent of any valuable property stolen is necessary for compensation purposes. As your attorney will tell you, list down all stolen or damaged properties under insurance before calling the agent.
The company may also require any information on the course of action you take after the theft. Here you may share a police report or details of when and where you reported the theft.
4. Talking to Your Neighbors
You may also want to chat with your neighbors or witnesses who have seen the robbery or any suspicious behavior. That helps you alert the neighbors on the incident, and perhaps you may stumble upon information that helps the investigations. Neighborhood watches are one of the best ways to track in-home robberies and thefts.
5. Increase Protection
Once a theft occurs, taking preventive measures to assure your safety is also a priority. Not only will it help calm you down, but it guarantees you protection. The safety actions you take may vary depending on the type of theft.
In fraud, one is urged to temporarily block access to personal items such as cards, bank accounts, or even social media accounts. Burglary and robbery may call for installing cameras, hiring security guards, or putting up electric fences.
6. Follow Up on Investigations or Insurance Claim
With the help of your lawyer, get involved in knowing the process of recovering your valuable items. In case the police investigations seem futile, follow up on your insurance claim. The claim will help you recover from the theft and start over again.
You should know that not all claims are successfully or fairly paid. Thus, you must involve an attorney to handle this process for you best.
Property theft may be damaging to your life progress and stress you out. Be around your family, ensure you are safe and let an experienced lawyer handle the rough details for you.