By Dez Duran-Lamanilao

After the devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey, car owners who do not have a comprehensive coverage in their auto insurance policies have an additional burden to deal with. They are probably faced with the dilemma of bringing the car for repair and face the risks associated with such catastrophe, or purchasing a new one, depending on the extent of the damage the vehicle has sustained.

Image source: CNN

If you are one of the more fortunate ones, remember to do these first steps to get the most out of your insurance:

  • Make sure that the vehicle gets dried as soon as possible so you can reduce the immediate problems that may arise especially if it has been totally submersed in the flood. The most obvious sign of this is when the seats or carpet look soaked with moisture.
  • Contact your insurer immediately to get first-hand advice on how to proceed.
  • Take as many photos as you can for faster processing of claims.

Those who live outside Texas may be pondering on whether this is the perfect time to upgrade their auto policies. After all, the state is a testament as to how nature can alter its course and cause larger-than-life destruction; even if it does not belong to the top US states that are most prone to flooding.

Water can destroy the whole vehicle’s mechanical parts, engine and upholstery. In some cases, it can even be considered totaled, and this is a scenario every car owner wishes to avoid. Aside from flood damage, a comprehensive auto insurance policy will also secure your car against most or all of the following:

  • Theft or vandalism
  • Fire
  • Accidental damage
  • Animal collisions
  • Natural disasters
  • Civil disturbance
  • Falling objects

Damage to another person’s vehicle and medical bills from personal injury are usually not covered though. If you are still undecided, talk to your insurer and find out if the additional premium that you have to pay will all be worth it when an unforeseen and destructive calamity strikes.