Finding Great Insurance

Insurance is one of the few products that you purchase with the intention of never having to use it. Auto insurance is required by most states, as it offers significant financial protection in the event of an accident. While most people know that an auto insurance policy can be a valuable tool after a collision, few realize that insurance can cover damages caused by natural disasters as well.

Flooding can render a vehicle inoperable, resulting in your insurance company writing your vehicle off as a loss. Avoid the hassle of filing an insurance claim by taking action to prevent flood damage to your vehicle in the future.

1. Seal Your Vehicle

Passenger vehicles are often thought of as being separate from the outside environment. While a vehicle is fitted with rubber seals around the doors to prevent water infiltration, there are other ways that water can enter your car during a flood and cause serious interior damage.

Cracks in your windshield can serve as entry points for flood waters. Most insurance companies offer partial coverage for windshield replacements, so take advantage of this service as soon as your windshield sustains any serious damage.

If you don't have time for repairs before a flood hits, you can cover your windshield with an automotive film to help seal off any cracks.

2. Garage Your Vehicle

Many homeowners view their garage as additional storage space, especially if they live in a temperate climate where rain and snowfall is kept to a minimum. It's important that you don't load your garage so full of outdoor gear and household items that you can no longer fit your vehicle inside.

Housing a car inside the garage during a major storm can prevent water damage. A garage will also protect your vehicle against strong winds and debris that might cause damage to the vehicle's exterior during a severe storm.

3. Avoid Puddles

The threat of water damage doesn't go away as soon as flood waters start to receded. Large puddles are typically left behind after a flood, and these puddles can wreak havoc on the condition of your vehicle. Avoid driving through puddles that appear to be deep or extend out for several feet.

Water that comes into contact with your vehicle's undercarriage could infiltrate the interior. Puddles can also accelerate the corrosion of your undercarriage, resulting in an increased potential for mechanical failure and the need for costly repairs in the future.

For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Crowel Agency, Inc.