Why is a second ignition not covered for water-damaged vehicles?
2 Answers
Water-damaged vehicles are not covered for a second ignition because it causes engine damage, which falls under the exclusion clauses of the auto damage insurance. Below are the specific details about auto damage insurance: 1. Definition of Auto Damage Insurance: Auto damage insurance is a type of commercial vehicle insurance where the insurer compensates within a reasonable range for damages to the insured vehicle caused by an insured accident while being driven by the policyholder or an authorized driver. 2. Coverage of Auto Damage Insurance: Auto damage insurance generally covers losses to the insured vehicle caused by natural disasters such as lightning, storms, heavy rain, floods, and accidents like collisions and overturns, as well as related rescue expenses.
Insurance companies generally don't cover second ignition of water-damaged vehicles because it's considered additional damage caused by human operational error. With over a decade of auto repair experience, I've seen many cases: when starting a flooded vehicle, the engine sucks water into the cylinders. Since water can't be compressed, piston movement creates hydraulic lock (water hammer effect), directly bending or breaking connecting rods and causing complete engine failure. This damage isn't caused by the flooding itself, but by the deliberate ignition attempt. Insurance policies clearly state they only cover natural disaster-related primary damage, not human-aggravated losses. The correct procedure for waterlogged vehicles is: don't start the engine, disconnect the battery negative terminal to prevent short circuits, then call a tow truck for professional inspection. Paying attention to insurance details can save big money - safety first, don't take risks.
