Despite how well you prepare your vehicle for a hurricane season or severe storm, Mother Nature has different ideas. Hurricanes have wreaked devastation and increased the number of such flooded cars. With strong winds throwing debris everywhere, forcing trees and electrical lines to fall, and heavy floods, it’s a massive mess to clean up. If you have an older car, the chances of it being totalled are high. However, if you have a newer vehicle or one that’s in good shape and perhaps hasn’t been affected by the floodwaters, your next step is to know what to do with a flooded car from a hurricane.
Step One: Inspect Your Flooded Car
You’ll need to compile an inventory of all the damage to your vehicle. If you have a flood-damaged vehicle, the water may have caused major engine damage and perhaps a fire. Do Not Attempt to Start Your Vehicle. If water has entered your vehicle’s wiring or electronic components, turning on the ignition may generate an unintended spark, resulting in a fire in your vehicle. Take pictures of your car in this condition for your insurance provider.
Step Two: Stop Further Water Damage to Your Car
If you’ve had any water enter the vehicle, time is of the essence. If your car is a total loss, your next steps are clear. However, if you have salvageable parts or just want to repair your ride, it’s imperative that you dry out its interior as soon as possible. Remove all wet carpets and start drying them out using fans or other household equipment. You’ll want to dry out the interior, so open the doors for air circulation and take off any soaked exterior parts as well.
Step Three: Contact Your Insurance Company
Depending on your policy, you may be able to get a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced. Call in and speak with a customer service agent. They’ll be able to guide you on the next steps in regards to your car. If it is considered totalled, they will walk you through the insurance claim process and connect you with a reputable repair shop that can fix up your vehicle or replace it if needed. However, if the damage is not severe, perhaps just having water inside the vehicle, you may be able to get someone out of your home and dry it out even more.
Step Four: Get the Flooded Car Inspected
Having the car inspected by a qualified mechanic is important for determining not only the damage but also whether or not you can re-use certain parts. Know that water in your vehicle may have affected its internal components and caused corrosion. Electricity and electronics may be damaged, too. If you’re considering keeping and repairing your car, get a professional to check it out.
Knowing how to deal with a flooded car from a hurricane is difficult. However, if you’re prepared and know what steps to take, you can save yourself money and time in the long run by not making hasty decisions!
Contact us at
Eastern Cash For Cars
720 High St Rd, Glen Waverley, VIC 3150
(03) 7035 7830
www.easterncashforcars.com.au
Recent Comments