How Does Insurance Cover Water Damage to Cars Caused by Heavy Rain?
2 Answers
If a vehicle is submerged while parked and stationary, the insurance will provide compensation. For vehicles flooded due to garage water ingress, the payout amount is determined based on the insured value at the time of underwriting. Owners can receive compensation if the engine is damaged after driving through waterlogged roads or being submerged in water.
That time my car got flooded in the heavy rain was really upsetting, but the insurance claim process went relatively smoothly. The key is not to start the engine immediately - push the car to higher ground and quickly take photos and videos as evidence. Then contact your insurance company to file a claim, remembering to bring your policy number. They'll send someone to assess the damage, during which it's best to have a professional repair shop evaluate the losses. Insurance compensation mainly depends on whether you have purchased auto damage insurance. After the 2020 auto insurance reform, basic auto damage insurance now covers natural disaster losses including flood damage from heavy rain, so you don't need to buy separate water-related damage coverage. However, if you forcibly start the engine after water exposure causing engine damage, the insurance company might not compensate, so don't make that mistake. Repair costs are calculated based on actual repairs, with maximum compensation up to the auto damage coverage amount. My final repair bill was over 5,000 yuan, which the insurance fully covered. I recommend everyone regularly review their policy details to ensure adequate coverage.
