How to Claim Insurance for a Flooded Car?
3 Answers
When the water level exceeds the dashboard, or the repair cost quoted by a professional repair shop reaches 80% of the vehicle's actual value. If the vehicle is partially submerged, as long as the engine is not flooded, the damage can also be covered by the vehicle damage insurance. If losses occur due to unclear judgment of water depth, except for engine damage caused by a second forced start, the vehicle damage insurance will generally cover the remaining losses in principle.
Last time I drove in heavy rain, I accidentally entered a deep waterlogged area, and my car got flooded. The claims process went relatively smoothly. First, after stopping the car, do not start the engine, or the engine will be damaged, and you won't be able to afford the repairs yourself. I immediately called my insurance company to report the incident, and they asked me to take photos to document the water level and license plate as proof. Then, I waited for the tow truck to take the car to the repair shop for damage assessment. After repairs, the insurance company compensated based on the policy, but the key was that I had previously purchased the water damage rider—otherwise, basic auto insurance wouldn’t cover flood damage. Usually, I always park on higher ground to avoid low-lying areas, and after rain, I check the drainage system to prevent water ingress, which saves a lot of hassle. Remembering these small precautions can save you a lot of trouble.
I often help people with insurance claims, and water-damaged vehicle claims are actually not complicated. Don't move the car; immediately notify the insurance company to file a claim, providing the address and on-site photos or videos as evidence. We guide customers to tow the vehicle to a designated repair shop for damage inspection, and the insurance company will assess the loss and compensate based on the policy—standard auto damage insurance usually doesn't cover water damage and requires additional coverage. Compensation includes repair costs such as cleaning circuits or replacing parts, but if the engine is started during water submersion, it may need to be handled at your own expense. It's advisable to regularly check your policy to ensure full coverage and avoid panic during floods.
