What to Do When Your Car Is Flooded: A Step-by-Step Guide for Car Owners to Get Insurance Compensation.

In the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yagi, northern provinces were ravaged by floods, with the Red River rising and threatening to submerge Hanoi. As vehicle owners face the aftermath of flooded cars, what steps should they take to ensure insurance coverage?

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The third storm (Super Storm Yagi) has passed, but the extensive rainfall over the past two days has caused flooding in the northern delta and mountainous regions. Many areas are severely affected, with losses of lives and properties. Especially since last night, the rising water levels of the Red River pose a threat of flooding to Hanoi.

Given this situation, it is inevitable that many cars will be submerged in the floodwaters, especially those parked in low-lying areas. Therefore, if you have purchased car insurance, it is crucial to understand the procedures for claiming compensation from insurance companies in the event of car flooding to avoid any possible complications and losses.

Mr. Doan Van Nhat, an insurance consultant at PVI, shared with VietNamNet: “Storms and floods are unforeseeable natural disasters, and insurance companies will compensate for such events. If you have purchased comprehensive car insurance, rest assured that the insurance company will cover the damages.”


Cars submerged in floodwaters. Illustrative image

According to Mr. Nhat, when facing such an unforeseen event, car owners should follow the proper steps outlined by the insurance company to facilitate a smooth compensation process.

Firstly, immediately contact your insurance company’s customer service hotline to report the incident. This is a mandatory requirement to ensure you receive your full benefits, and failing to do so may result in a penalty of 10-50% of the total repair cost.

Secondly, take photographs of the scene if the insurance company is unable to send an assessor to survey the damage immediately.

Thirdly, arrange for a tow truck to take your car to a repair shop. As the car is immobile due to the accident, the insurance company will cover the transportation costs.

It is important to note that you should not attempt to start the engine to avoid hydrolock. If your car insurance policy does not include a supplementary clause for hydrolock coverage, the insurance company will deny compensation.

Fourthly, ensure that the proposed solution is documented in an assessment report signed by the assessor and a representative of the insurance company to be considered valid.

Finally, once your car is repaired, the insurance company will reimburse you for all repair costs if you have submitted a complete and valid set of documents.


Flooded cars being towed away. Source: TL

Additionally, Mr. Nhat suggested taking your car to a repair shop affiliated with the insurance company to expedite the payment process, usually within two working days. Customers only need to sign the acceptance report and collect their vehicle.

If you prefer to use a non-affiliated repair shop, you will have to advance the repair costs, and the insurance company will reimburse you based on the amount you have paid. This option may take a longer time to receive the compensation.

Mr. Nhat pointed out that many car owners do not have the habit of understanding the basics of insurance, which can lead to confusion during such incidents. Instead of immediately calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, some owners tend to contact the insurance agent directly. However, if the agent is unavailable or unable to provide sufficient guidance, it can lead to misunderstandings, anger, and unnecessary disputes.

To efficiently navigate the car insurance compensation process, car owners should closely collaborate with and adhere to the regulations set by the insurance company. Similarly, insurance agents should also enhance their support services to prevent any avoidable complaints.

According to VNN

Frequently asked questions

If your car is flooded, the first step is to ensure your safety. Do not attempt to drive through or start the car if there is water above the floor level of your car. Once you are safe, assess the damage and contact your insurance company to initiate a claim. It is important to document the damage with photos and videos, and keep all receipts and records of any repairs or replacements.

To get insurance compensation for your flooded car, you will need to file a claim with your insurance company. Make sure to document the damage with photos and videos, and keep all records and receipts related to the incident. Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the compensation amount.

The repairs or replacements needed for a flooded car can vary depending on the severity of the flooding. In most cases, you will need to replace the engine oil, transmission fluid, and other fluids that may have been contaminated. You may also need to repair or replace electrical components, as water can cause short circuits and damage to wiring. It is important to have a qualified mechanic inspect your car to identify all the necessary repairs.

To prevent your car from being flooded in the future, there are several precautions you can take. Avoid driving through flooded areas if possible, and be aware of the depth of water on the road. Keep your car properly maintained, including regular checks of your windshield wipers, tires, and battery. Consider investing in comprehensive insurance coverage, which can provide protection against flood damage.

Driving a car that has been flooded can pose several risks. The electrical system may be damaged, increasing the risk of short circuits and fires. The engine and transmission may also be affected, leading to decreased performance and potential breakdowns. In addition, flooded cars can develop rust and corrosion, which can weaken the structure and integrity of the vehicle.
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