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10 Things to Keep in your Car’s Glovebox

As you probably know, your glovebox or glove compartment is a handy little storage space in your car that you can stock with important items to make sure you’re ready for anything. Include gloves if you so choose.  

Here are some of our glovebox essentials: 

Important documentation

You should always, always have your license and vehicle registration on you. It’s a good idea to at least keep your registration information in the glove box, just so you always know where it is and have it with you when you’re on the road. It’s also a good place to leave your proof of insurance as well. 

Cleaning supplies

We’ve all been there…one second you’re enjoying a delicious iced latte. The next, it’s all over your shirt. You should keep some napkins or wet wipes in your glove box in case of a spill. 

Cellphone charger

You should always have your cellphone on you when you’re driving in case of an accident or if your car breaks down and you need some help from roadside assistance. But when your phone is dead, well, it’s pretty useless. It’s a good idea to have a charger that works in your car just in case, so your phone can actually do what a phone is for in an emergency. 

Snacks

Everyone likes to munch. But sometimes, you’ll need an emergency snack. Keep a few granola bars in your glove compartment just in case your car breaks down and you’re stuck waiting for help. Or if you don’t have time to grab lunch before your next meeting. Either way, your stomach will thank you. 

Flashlight

Those car interior lights aren’t quite bright enough for you to see your phone that you dropped between the seats. Plus, if your car battery dies at night, you’ll definitely want to have some light for your safety. 

First aid kit

Hopefully the only thing you’ll need a first aid kit for is a paper cut, but it’s always smart to be prepared for anything. Many department stores sell compact kits that fit right in your glove box, should you ever need it. 

Owner’s manual

If your car needs a quick fix, it’s always good to have your owner’s manual handy, so you (or your mechanic) know the specific needs of your vehicle. Luckily, the owner’s manual is probably already somewhere in your vehicle, so you’ll be back on the road in no time. 

Sunglasses

Sunglasses can be a stylish addition to any outfit of course, but they can also help with dangerous sun glare while driving. It’s good to keep a pair handy in case you’re driving on a road that’s super sunny (or you’re just feeling fashionable). 

Mini-stain remover

First impressions are important, so make sure you’re not walking into any job interviews or lunch dates with a stained shirt. In case of a morning coffee spill, a stain remover pen can be a lifesaver…and a shirt saver. 

Paper map

Gasp! A paper map? People still use those? Well, as much as we love our smartphone GPS apps or the GPS built into the vehicle, it’s very possible a day will come where it fails. It’s a good idea to have paper map of your state or region, so you can find your way home if technology isn’t so reliable. 

You can get a competitive car insurance quote in MA from MAPFRE Insurance or connect with an independent insurance agent if you reside in another state. 

Frequently asked questions about total losses

When is my car considered a total loss?

Your car is considered a total loss (totaled) when the cost to repair the vehicle exceeds its current value.

How is the value of my car determined?

MAPFRE works with a third-party to help determine the actual cash value of your car. The value of your vehicle is determined by a variety of factors like its pre-loss condition, age, make, model, and mileage. Also taken into consideration is the value of a vehicle of a similar type and the price paid for the vehicle.

What happens if I still have a loan or lease on my car?

Depending on the lender, if the actual value of your car is less than what you owe on your loan or lease, then you may still owe the balance.

 

Having gap insurance will typically cover the difference between what your vehicle is currently worth and the amount you actually owe on the loan or lease.

What paperwork is needed before payment can be issued?

Before payment can be issued, MAPFRE needs the title of the vehicle. If you hold the title, you must fill in the odometer disclosure statement and sign the title before sending it to us.

 

If the title is with your lender, MAPFRE will reach out to them. Keep in mind, requirements differ by states and there may be additional steps.

What happens to my car if it's determined a total loss?

After your car is determined a total loss, you will need to advise the repair shop or tow yard that you would like to release your vehicle to MAPFRE. This timely permission to move the vehicle will help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

 

During this time, you should also remove all personal belongings from the vehicle and take off the license plates.

Why do you need to take my car and where are you taking it?

While we usually cover up to $35 per day of storage at shop or tow yard, those fees can add up quickly. That’s why MAPFRE takes it to a storage-free facility. If you don’t want to allow MAPFRE to move your car, you may be responsible for the additional storage fees.

What if I decide to keep my car?

MAPFRE has the right to take your vehicle in settlement of a total loss under the terms and conditions of your auto policy. If we decide to allow you to retain the vehicle, it will be returned to you from the salvage yard once the claims process is complete. Once a car is totaled you will still need to have it repaired and pass inspection. You will need to apply for a salvage or rebuilt title that identifies the car as having been a total loss. Many insurance companies will not cover a salvaged vehicle it’s challenging to accurately assess the true condition of the vehicle.

Please Note:This content is not intended to describe any specific coverage offered by MAPFRE Insurance. No coverage is provided, bound or guaranteed by this article. Available coverages, credits and discounts vary from state to state and are subject to eligibility criteria and policy terms/conditions, which will control in the event of conflict between this article and your insurance policy. For information about your policy, please review your individual policy contract and speak with your insurance representative.

MAPFRE Insurance® is a brand and service mark of MAPFRE U.S.A. Corp. and its affiliates, American Commerce Insurance CompanySM (Cal. COA 4928-8); Citation Insurance CompanySM; The Commerce Insurance CompanySM; Commerce West Insurance CompanySM (Cal. COA 1372-2); and MAPFRE Insurance CompanySM (Cal. COA 3039-5). Not all products available in all states.

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