How Much Can Be Claimed for a Fully Insured Car Submerged in Water?
2 Answers
A fully insured car submerged in water will be compensated by the insurance company for 80% of the actual loss. The relevant details are as follows: Claim Process for a Water-Damaged Car: First, report the incident. Once the vehicle is submerged, immediately call the insurance company to report the claim. Next, take photos. If the insurance surveyor cannot arrive promptly, the owner should take photos of the scene and the vehicle's damage safely for assessment and claims. Third, arrange for rescue. You can contact the insurance company for rescue services or a professional rescue company. Six Levels of Water Damage: Level 1: Water just reaches the vehicle's chassis. The floor may get damp, but significant water ingress is unlikely, and the impact on electrical equipment is minimal. Level 2: Water reaches halfway up the wheels. Due to the vehicle's incomplete sealing, water begins entering the interior. For lower cars, the water level may affect seat adjustment motors and heating/ventilation components. Level 3: Water almost fully submerges the tires. The interior water level will soak the seat cushions and center console, affecting numerous electrical components. Level 4: Water reaches the engine hood. The interior water level rises to the dashboard, and the headlights and engine intake pipes start taking in water. Level 5: Water completely submerges the engine hood. Almost all interior electrical components are affected. Level 6: Water submerges the roof. The ceiling and sunroof modules are impacted, and no interior component remains unaffected.
I once experienced my car being flooded, and whether comprehensive insurance covers it depends on the specific policy terms. Typically, the vehicle damage insurance under comprehensive coverage will compensate for non-engine parts, such as soaked seats or water-damaged electronic devices, with the amount calculated based on the depreciated value of your coverage. However, if the engine is damaged, you’d need separate wading insurance to claim. Last time my car got flooded, the insurer inspected it and said the engine was fine, so they covered about 10,000 yuan for interior repairs. But if the engine was damaged due to restarting after wading, they wouldn’t pay a penny. Always report the claim immediately, take photos for evidence, and never move the car before the inspection.
