Will insurance cover a car submerged in a flood?
2 Answers
If the car is submerged in a flood and the owner has purchased waterlogging insurance, the losses caused by heavy rain and flooding will be compensated. If this insurance is not purchased, the insurance company will not be responsible for compensation. Introduction to waterlogging insurance: Waterlogging insurance, also known as automobile loss insurance or engine special loss insurance, is called differently by various insurance companies but is essentially the same. It is a newly derived type of insurance. The so-called full coverage of car insurance generally does not include waterlogging insurance. Although referred to differently by various insurance companies, the essence is the same, referring to an additional insurance purchased by the owner for the engine. The insurance company will compensate for engine damage caused by driving through waterlogged roads or being submerged in water. No compensation for damage caused by secondary start in water: Damage caused by prolonged submersion in water or a secondary start in water. Owners can only receive insurance compensation for water immersion if they have purchased "vehicle damage insurance," but it mainly covers losses caused by water immersion such as seats and circuits. Damage to the engine caused by driving through water or starting in water is not covered by the insurance.
Last time my own car got flooded in heavy rain, and I was really panicked at the moment. I immediately checked the insurance policy to see about compensation. Generally, if you have comprehensive car insurance, the insurer will cover flood-related damages, but you need to pay special attention to engine flooding—without additional water ingress coverage, that part might not be covered. My advice is not to start the car after it's been submerged, or the insurer may consider it human-caused damage and deny the engine claim. Back then, I took photos for evidence right away and contacted customer service—they sent someone to tow and repair it, covering all the repair costs. After that incident, I learned my lesson: during the rainy season, I always park on higher ground. Spending a little extra on water ingress coverage gives me peace of mind—it's not worth skimping on premiums to save money. When flooding is severe, the car's electrical systems are also prone to damage, and repairs can be expensive. Having insurance coverage makes things much easier.
