Why is Secondary Ignition Not Covered by Insurance?

[CalvinRose]

Secondary ignition is considered a human-caused factor, and vehicle damages resulting from human causes are not covered by the insurance policy. Below is relevant information about secondary ignition: Introduction: During water wading, if water blocks the air intake and causes the vehicle to stall, attempting to restart the engine is referred to as secondary ignition. Precautions: It is important to note that even if the water on the road has receded, you should avoid attempting to restart the engine, as there may still be water in the intake pipe, and electrical systems may malfunction after being submerged. The best course of action is to contact a towing company. Do not try to save on towing fees at the risk of causing greater damage. When arranging for a tow, clearly communicate to the staff that the vehicle stalled during water wading. For easier towing, the towing company may shift the gear to neutral. Without understanding the situation, they might attempt to start the engine, so it is crucial to explain the circumstances clearly.

[DelRuby]

In the automotive field, we often deal with insurance claims. Secondary ignition is not covered mainly because insurance policies exclude losses caused by human error after an accident. For example, attempting to restart a vehicle after water ingress can lead to water entering the cylinders, causing a rupture and complete engine failure; this damage is more severe than the accident itself, with repair costs often amounting to tens of thousands. Insurance companies consider this an avoidable mistake rather than a pure accident, hence the justified denial of claims. It is recommended that drivers turn off the engine and power immediately after an accident, call for rescue, and regularly review their insurance policies to understand exclusion clauses. The purpose of insurance is to protect against unforeseen risks, and learning the correct response can prevent additional losses while ensuring personal and others' safety. Many new drivers are unaware of these details, but mastering them early can save significant money and trouble.

[River]

As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I've personally witnessed the consequences of friends' mistakes, where secondary ignition leading to claim rejection is quite common. After an accident, some people panic and try to start the car to test it, but if the engine has taken in water or suffered internal damage, attempting to start it again can exacerbate the problem, such as bending connecting rods or failing sealing components. Insurance companies won't cover this because it's considered the driver's own negligent action, not a direct result of the accident. I've talked with repair shop workers, and in some cases, repair costs doubled without any compensation, proving it's better to stay calm at the scene. My advice is that the first thing to do after a collision is to turn off the engine and avoid any unnecessary actions, then call for help. Insurance is meant to protect your safety, but improper handling can lead to financial loss instead. This is a lesson every driver should keep in mind.

[DelStephen]

Working in car repairs for a long time, I often see troubles caused by secondary ignition, such as starting the engine after water ingress, which leads to the water pump drawing in water and causing engine knocking, ultimately resulting in the complete failure of the engine. This is worse than the accident itself. The reason insurance companies refuse to pay is that the policy states that human error is not covered, as it is considered an avoidable mistake. Repair costs double, and car owners inevitably regret paying out of pocket. My advice is not to rush to start the engine after an accident; first, check the car's condition to prevent further damage. The original intention of insurance is to cover risks, and behaving responsibly is the reliable way to go.