What to Do When Your Car is Flooded in an Underground Parking Lot?
2 Answers
Assess the extent of water damage to the vehicle. Below are specific steps to handle a flooded car: 1. First, evaluate the water level. If the water is not too deep—less than two-thirds of the car's tire height and not reaching the exhaust pipe—it indicates no immediate safety threat. You can drive the car out along a safe route. 2. If the water level exceeds the exhaust pipe and enters the vehicle, do not start the engine. Starting the engine can cause severe damage, and insurance companies may deny coverage. Immediately call for roadside assistance and contact your insurance provider to file a claim. Even if you haven't purchased flood insurance, the insurer may cover non-engine damages. Engine damage is only covered if you have flood insurance. 3. While waiting for assistance, take photos of the flooded car from all angles to facilitate the claims process.
My last experience of having my car flooded in the underground garage was absolutely awful. First step - never try to start the engine! Attempting to start in water could completely destroy the engine. Immediately remove the key, exit the vehicle, and take photos/videos. Make sure to clearly capture the waterline position, especially photographing the license plate and dashboard height - these are crucial evidence for insurance assessment. If the car is deeply submerged, many electronic components will suffer water damage with hidden risks. After my flood incident, I spent over 3,000 yuan replacing carpets and interior trim, plus had to remove seats for two days of drying to eliminate mildew smell. Remember to contact your insurance company immediately to file a claim - they'll send an adjuster to inspect. Also, the garage property management may share liability, so request their surveillance footage as evidence. Later, let the insurance company arrange the towing - don't try handling it yourself.
