With hurricane season in full swing, many Rio Grande Valley residents know that flooding can be a serious issue.

Flooding can cause a lot of serious damage, especially to your vehicle. But what does flood insurance cover, and is it really worth it in the end?

Read on for helpful tips on what you need to know about flood insurance.

Comprehensive Coverage

When you’re applying for an insurance policy, you may have seen the term ‘Comprehensive Coverage.” Comprehensive coverage is not part of any minimum coverage, but instead an add-on to your policy. Unless you are financing your vehicle, comprehensive coverage is not required.

Comprehensive coverage covers a wide variety of situations that can happen to your vehicle, including flood damage.

Be sure to speak with your insurance agent to see the full qualifications that comprehensive coverage will apply to in your policy.

Do Not Wait!

Many insurance companies will restrict the purchase of comprehensive coverage in the wake of a hurricane. Meaning, if a hurricane is close or your vehicle is located in a danger-zone– you will not be able to purchase coverage at the time.

This is done to prevent fraudulent claims. If you live in an area susceptible to flooding, it would be wise to add comprehensive coverage to your vehicle before any natural disaster hits.

File a Claim

If you have comprehensive coverage and your vehicle has been affected by flooding, you can then file a claim.

Be sure to file your claim as soon as possible. If the storm was particularly catastrophic, the claims process may take longer as many people will be trying to file claims as well. The earlier you get your paperwork and claim ready, the better.

Start drying out your vehicle as soon as you can. You can do this yourself or take your vehicle to a professional to get it dried out.

After your claim gets approved, use your insurance’s preferred body shop, or one you trust, to get it professionally worked on. Flood damage can wreck more than your interior, so getting it checked under the hood is a priority.

Payne Insurance Group

Payne Insurance Group provides insurance for auto, home, commercial, and much more! Payne Insurance Group has partnered with over 13 businesses across the Rio Grande Valley, As a result, we have created a one-stop-shop for all your automotive needs.

Get your FREE insurance quote today!

Payne Auto Group wishes everyone to stay safe this hurricane season. View our past blogs on hurricane preparedness.