The monsoon season often brings heavy rains, which can lead to waterlogging in cities and villages alike. As a result, many cars may get submerged or washed away due to flooding.
Viral videos from places like Delhi and Uttarakhand show cars floating in water after heavy rains.
This raises an important question: Does car insurance cover damage caused by natural disasters like floods or heavy rain?
Types of Damage Due to Flooding
During the rainy season, cars can suffer from multiple types of damage:
Engine Damage: Water can enter the car and damage the engine. Repairing this can be costly, sometimes exceeding ₹1 lakh.
Electrical Damage: The car’s electrical systems and accessories may also get damaged, adding to the repair costs.
What Type of Car Insurance Covers Flood Damage?
If you hold a comprehensive car insurance policy, you’re in luck. This type of policy covers damage caused by natural disasters such as floods, storms, or heavy rains.
Comprehensive insurance offers protection for a variety of situations:
Weather-Related Damage: Covers damage caused by flooding, fire, and other natural disasters.
Accidents and Theft: Protects against loss due to accidents or vehicle theft.
It is important to note that comprehensive insurance is optional, and not all car owners may have it. However, if you do have this policy, you can claim for damage caused by floods or waterlogging.
Essential Add-On Covers for Rainy Seasons
When purchasing insurance, experts recommend considering additional protections that complement the standard comprehensive policy:
Zero Depreciation Cover: Ensures you get the full claim without considering the depreciation value of parts.
Engine Protection Cover: Covers engine damage specifically caused by water. The standard policy may not include this, so it’s crucial to add this coverage for full protection.
