Can Vehicle Damage Insurance Cover Water Damage Without Purchasing Water Wading Coverage?
2 Answers
Without purchasing water wading coverage, vehicle damage insurance cannot cover water damage. Water wading is an exclusion clause in the main vehicle damage insurance policy, meaning claims will not be paid for such incidents. To receive compensation, you must purchase additional water wading coverage. Water wading coverage, also known as vehicle loss insurance or engine special loss insurance, is an add-on policy that owners can purchase specifically for engine protection. Additional information: After the auto insurance reform, vehicle damage insurance can cover all expenses, including rescue fees, engine water damage repair costs, electrical component replacement fees, and interior cleaning or replacement costs. However, if an engine damage exclusion rider is added, the repair costs for water-damaged engines will not be covered. The reformed vehicle damage insurance has a capped compensation limit, paying up to the maximum amount, with any excess costs borne by the vehicle owner. That said, even with vehicle damage insurance, full compensation for a flooded car is not guaranteed and depends on the actual circumstances.
I've been driving for almost 20 years and often encounter rainy season driving issues. If you haven't purchased water damage insurance, your car damage insurance generally won't cover water-related losses. Car damage insurance mainly covers collision accidents, theft, etc., but for damages caused by engine flooding or water immersion of the vehicle body, without additional water damage coverage, the insurance company may directly reject the claim. Last time my car was submerged in a heavy rain, because I saved a little money by not buying the additional coverage, I ended up paying over ten thousand out of pocket for engine repairs. I recommend car owners assess risks based on regional weather when purchasing insurance—for example, spending an extra hundred or two for water damage coverage in rainy cities can save big money in the long run. Also, choose higher ground for daily parking and avoid driving through waterlogged areas. Never take chances—the repair costs and hassle are just too great.
