Is Water Wading Coverage Included in General Auto Insurance?
3 Answers
General auto insurance does not include water wading coverage. Below is an introduction to auto water wading coverage: 1. Definition: Water wading coverage is a newly derived type of auto insurance, mainly referring to an additional coverage purchased by the vehicle owner for the engine. It primarily provides compensation for engine damage caused by driving through waterlogged roads or after the vehicle is submerged in water. 2. Compensation Conditions: The insurer is responsible for compensation according to the insurance contract if the insured or their legally permitted driver causes damage to the insured vehicle's engine under the following circumstances during the use of the insured vehicle: the insured vehicle's exhaust pipe or intake pipe is submerged during heavy rain or flooding, and the driver continues to start the vehicle or uses inertia to start the vehicle; or the vehicle is started without necessary treatment after being exposed to heavy rain or flooding.
Last summer during heavy rain, I drove through a waterlogged area and ended up with water in the engine—what a disaster! Since I didn’t have water ingress insurance, the repairs cost me over 5,000 yuan. That’s when I learned that standard car insurance, like compulsory traffic insurance and basic commercial coverage, doesn’t cover this. Water ingress insurance needs to be purchased separately—it mainly covers losses caused by driving through water, such as engine flooding or electrical short circuits. If you live in an area with heavy rainy seasons or often drive in suburban areas, I highly recommend adding this coverage. The premium is just a few hundred yuan, much cheaper than repair costs. Just remember to clarify the details before buying—don’t regret it like I did. Some insurers bundle water ingress insurance into comprehensive coverage, but most require it as an add-on. Get into the habit of checking your insurance before the rainy season—it can save you a lot of trouble.
Having driven in southern cities for over a decade where floods are common, I can't stress enough the importance of water damage insurance. Standard auto insurance only covers collision accidents, not water-related damages. Water damage coverage is an add-on that requires active purchase, protecting against flood submersion or waterlogging damage. For instance, repairing a water-damaged car can cost tens of thousands, but with this coverage, you only pay a few hundred in premiums. High-risk drivers, especially those near rivers or lakes, should definitely consider it. From experience, it's particularly essential in rainy regions. When purchasing, don't just look at price—choose insurers with transparent policy terms. Always prioritize safety and avoid forcing through water while driving.
