Multiple Vehicles Vandalized in Two Sacramento Areas
Both incidents occurred in the early morning of Tuesday, December 27th. Police said it is unclear if the two crimes are connected to the same suspects, but the vehicles were damaged similarly.
Devastating Times for Vehicle Owners
Owners of the damaged vehicles were devastated when they saw that the windows of their cars were completely busted. The overnight rain also left them with an even worse headache, with the interiors of their vehicles being utterly soaked.
They said the vehicles were damaged for no apparent reason since nothing was stolen, and personal items in plain sight, such as sunglasses, were left untouched.
One apartment resident, a college student working a full-time job, said it would cost between $400 to $500 to replace her broken window. She said this was not the first time her car had been burglarized at the apartment complex. She also had her catalytic converter stolen.
Several other residents told similar stories. They said more than 20 vehicles were damaged at the American River Commons apartment complex two months ago. They started a petition with over 100 signatures and sent it to apartment management, but they said nothing had been done.
Residents Want Management to Improve Safety
Apartment residents said they are frustrated with the security around the complex and want management to do more to improve safety. They said one major issue is that no barrier or fence is blocking the parking lot from the street, and only one entrance has a gate.
They said although regional management installed cameras recently and hired security patrols, it is not enough since it did not deter the perpetrators from striking again.
Residents at the Commons said this misfortune could not have come at a worse time. With more rain on the way and a few days before the rent is due, they are asking for more time to come up with rent money as they are shelling out hundreds of dollars to fix their car windows.
Sacramento Police are asking anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-4357 or the dispatch center at (916) 808-5471. Police have also set up an online portal to submit photos and videos of the vandalism. Witnesses can stay anonymous and may receive a reward of up to $1,000.
The YouTube video below from KCRA 3 News reports the string of multiple overnight car break-ins in Sacramento.
Does Auto Insurance Cover Vandalism?
If you have comprehensive car insurance coverage, it will cover vehicle vandalism or damage that is out of your control. The out-of-pocket deductible for comprehensive coverage can range from $500 to $1,000, depending on your insurer. It may make more sense to file a comprehensive claim if the cost of repairs is higher than your deductible. However, depending on your auto insurance company, filing a vandalism car insurance claim could result in a rate increase.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident attorney. Have you been seriously injured in a recent car accident in Sacramento County and believe it was caused by another driver’s negligence? Our experienced legal team can provide free, friendly advice and discuss a potential claim for your damages. Call us at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for a no-obligation consultation. You can also reach out to us online through our Contact Us form.
Our Sacramento personal injury law firm has served Northern California residents since 1982. See our successful case results of Settlements and Verdicts.
Image by Vladyslav Topyekha from Pixabay
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