Flooded Vehicle Scrapping Process?
2 Answers
If a vehicle is submerged in water and the engine is not flooded, replacing parts or repairing circuits falls under the coverage of auto damage insurance. If the vehicle is deemed a total loss, compensation can be claimed accordingly. Losses caused by stopping in a flooded area are covered according to the insurance policy. However, damages resulting from the driver attempting to start the engine after submersion are not eligible for compensation. If the vehicle is stationary and submerged without forced ignition, and the owner does not have additional flood insurance, the insurance company will still cover the damages.
That time my car was completely flooded, and the whole scrapping process was quite troublesome but had to be completed. After the water receded, I immediately called a tow truck to take it to the auto repair shop for inspection. The mechanic checked and said the engine was flooded, the wiring was all soaked and damaged beyond repair, so it had to be scrapped. Then I reported it to the insurance company, they sent someone to assess the damage and take photos. After signing the agreement, they recommended a partnered recycling station. Once the car was towed there, the staff dismantled it and recycled the usable parts. I took the paperwork to the DMV to cancel the license plate and registration. The whole process took over two weeks, and the insurance even compensated me for the residual value. Remember, never drive a flood-damaged car—hidden risks like electrical shorts and fires are too great. Finding a reliable institution is crucial to ensure thorough handling and reduce safety hazards.