What to Do If Your Car is Flood-Damaged?
Rainy seasons sometimes bring with it intense flooding that can cause losses where properties and vehicles are concerned. It is unfortunate but sometimes we cannot save our belongings as floodwaters can rise quite quickly. After floods, there are always claims concerning vehicle damage. The following tips can guide you in controlling the severity of your loss during floods.
Do Not Start The Car
When the floodwaters recede, ensure that you evaluate the depth by which the vehicle was submerged. You can look for watermarks that will give you an idea as to the level of damage. It is key that you do not start the vehicle if you think that water would have entered the vehicle since the damage can be extensive.
Dry The Vehicle Inside Out
Identify the nature of water source to understand if it is saltwater or freshwater as the damage caused by saltwater can be extreme If you suspect that the engine and interiors still hold some of the floodwaters then either have your vehicle towed or park on a slanted surface. You should also open the doors and wind down all windows to allow cross-ventilation, allowing the vehicle to dry naturally.
Check The Fuel And Power System
All power systems should be disconnected as this can easily lead to a short circuit or fire outbreak involving the battery, engine, and fuel. Saltwater can cause rapid corrosion and silt and dirt can affect the efficiency of the filters. It is strongly recommended to replace the oil and fuel, no matter how clean it appears as there might still be some mud or soil in parts of the system that are not visible.
Take Photos Or Videos Of The Damage
Although this forms part of the claim submission, recording the incident from the beginning will be of great help. Even before examining the vehicle, you should take photos or videos of the vehicle and the floodwaters so that the severity of damage sustained will be easier understood by all parties involved in the claims process.
Contact your insurer
Regardless of the damage sustained by your vehicle, you should inform your insurance company as soon as possible. In the event of any national or natural disaster, insurance companies would usually be overwhelmed with claims and so it is wise to start your process as quickly as you can. It is also important to discuss the perils covered by your policy to ensure that the claim can be honored. On the off chance that a calamitous flood destroys your car, it’s crucial to realize what sort of motor damage coverage you have. It may amaze you to realize that if you have a comprehensive policy, it’s likely that your insurance plan will cover flood damages, too. Our agent will visit with a mechanic to identify and assess the damages. They’ll look out for the wears and tears and check the functioning of every system and component. Note the faulty behavior in any part and will outline whether repairing or replacing is better.
Final Words
Gulf’s Comprehensive Motor Insurance Policy offers the benefit of special perils cover. In essence, damage caused by hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods will be covered. Get online quotes today at gulfinsuranceltd.com.
