If your car was water damaged from Hurricane Sandy, The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America has issued some tips for you. Insurance News Net’s “P/C Insurers Association Offers Tips On Flooded Vehicles” answers questions about what consumers should do if their car was damaged. The article also issues warnings to consumers looking to buy a new car so that they don’t buy a cheap vehicle that has water damage from Hurricane Sandy. Your comprehensive insurance coverage should include damage to your car from being flooded by hurricane waters. If your car has been flooded, it’s probably best not to start the vehicle before having it checked out by a reputable technician.
Once cars are flooded, they will likely have to be sent to a salvage auction and labeled as flood damaged. These vehicles will be salvaged for parts and consumers will be reimbursed by their car insurance companies. Some vehicles are properly restored after getting flood damage, but they should be labeled as such so that consumers know what they are getting into. The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System mandates a federal data base where car insurance companies have to report total loss vehicles. Those vehicles damaged by flood are supposed to have their titles branded, but some state laws allow for inconsistencies in reporting.
If your car has been damaged by flood waters, try to assess the extent of the damage before starting the vehicle. Check the air filter to see if it is wet. If the floor boards or seats are wet, there is likely damage to the electrical system and you should see if it can be fixed before trying to start it. File a claim with your insurance company and try to keep the car safe from any more damage while you are waiting. If you are worried about purchasing a flood damaged vehicle, check the car fax or other sites like vehicle history or the NICB. Look the car over for any signs of water damage or recent repair of things likely to be damaged in a flood. Take the car to a mechanic to be looked over if you aren’t confident in the dealer or vehicle. Thousands of people have lost their cars to damage from Hurricane Sandy. Your first step should be contacting your insurance company for help. If your coverage will not help you, you might qualify for a FEMA loan to help purchase a new vehicle.










