In 2024, flooding was one of the most frequent natural disasters in the United States, causing significant damage to homes, belongings, and vehicles. While home and flood insurance often take center stage in these situations, auto insurance can also play a crucial role. However, certain conditions apply.

Can Auto Insurance Cover Your Flood-Damaged Car?

If you have comprehensive coverage, auto insurance will only cover water damage from a flood. This type of coverage includes theft, fire, vandalism, and severe weather events. It covers car damage related to puddles, standing water, or flooded streets, and it also covers cars declared a total loss due to engine failure.

Drivers making monthly payments on their car usually require collision coverage, which may include comprehensive coverage. Drivers who own their vehicles outright need to add it to their existing coverage. It’s important to note that you cannot add comprehensive coverage to your policy at Renee Oliver Insurance Agency Inc. just before severe weather or after water damage has occurred. Binding restrictions prevent new policies or changes to existing policies during such times. Also, comprehensive coverage cannot be used to cover past damages.

In Silver Spring, MD, the minimum coverage required is liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. The repair cost is entirely your responsibility if your car sustains water damage under this coverage.

What Does Comprehensive Coverage Not Cover?

Comprehensive coverage does not cover water damage resulting from poor car maintenance or preventable issues. For instance, if your sunroof was left open during a rainstorm and damaged the car interior, auto insurance will not cover it. It also does not cover owner-installed electronics inside vehicles; these must be manufacturer-installed.

Comprehensive coverage is the only component of auto insurance that protects your car from flood-related water damage. Renee Oliver Insurance Agency Inc. offers individual comprehensive coverage to add to your policy. Let us help you choose the right one. Call or visit our Silver Spring, MD office to add comprehensive coverage to your policy.