For the insurer and the owner of a vehicle involved in a “rock rental,” parting is sweet sorrow indeed. This type of loss, which is also called a “drug give-up,” refers to the growing incidence of insured drivers who relinquish their automobiles in lieu of monetary payment for illegal substances, usually crack cocaine.

As Roy Mura, Esq., Mura & Storm, PLLC, explained in today's International Association of Special Investigation Units' session titled “Investigating the 'Crack Ride' Loss — A Claim Study,” the person borrowing the vehicle in question is usually a small-time drug dealer who may otherwise lack transportation. The dealer in this case may use the car to run personal errands and then not return it to the owner. When and if the automobile is delivered back to the owner, it may be in a state of disarray, often having been vandalized to some extent.

Subsequently, the insured/drug user in such a scenario will file a claim alleging theft. Insurers are then confronted with the arduous task of determining coverage and if an auto theft has in fact occurred — as defined by policy limits, if not in the traditional sense.

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