Will Insurance Cover a Car That Was Flooded While Parked?
2 Answers
If you haven't purchased water damage insurance, the insurance company will not cover the claim. Additionally, if you forcibly start the engine after the car has been submerged, any resulting damage will also not be covered by the insurance. Here is the relevant information: 1. Regulations: According to China's motor vehicle insurance clauses, vehicle damage caused by natural disasters such as heavy rain or floods falls under the coverage of commercial auto insurance's vehicle damage insurance. Therefore, expenses like rescue fees, cleaning costs, electrical damage, and interior damage caused by flooding are covered by vehicle damage insurance, and the insurance company should compensate for these. However, vehicle damage insurance does not cover engine damage caused by flooding or secondary ignition, but water damage insurance does. 2. Water Damage Insurance: Also known as engine special loss insurance, it covers engine damage caused by driving through water or being submerged. Furthermore, auto insurance clauses usually include a deductible rate. If you haven't purchased the "no-deductible special clause," the insurance company will compensate after deducting the deductible amount in the event of an accident.
If your car is flooded while parked, insurance coverage depends on the policy you purchased. Nowadays, auto damage insurance covers natural disasters, including heavy rain and floods. However, pay attention to two scenarios: first, if the car is flooded while stationary, it's usually fully covered; second, if it's flooded while driving, don't attempt to start it—secondary ignition might not be covered. When filing a claim, make sure the insurance adjuster comes to take photos. I've seen a friend whose car was flooded in a garage and received full compensation for repair costs. Nowadays, water-damaged car repairs are quite advanced, so never try to start the engine yourself! Remember to file a claim within 48 hours to be valid, as delays can affect the claim process.
