Here’s how to avoid damaging your car this 2024 hurricane season

In a more intense hurricane season than usual, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Debby weakened to tropical storm status, although Many drivers suffered damage to their vehicles due to flooding caused by the climatic phenomenon.

In dialogue with the media News Channel 8 Tampa, Dusty Cox, manager of a well-known auto and tire repair shop in the region, said that “cars are designed to get wet and drive through water, They are not designed to be submerged in water.“.

When faced with streets blocked by the accumulation of water, the first recommendation is to reverse to Do not cross flooded areasbecause drivers could get stuck, or even damage their vehicle just by driving on the streets. That’s why specialists advise Stay home while the storm is happening and avoid driving. in the hours following the phenomenon.

What to do if my car is submerged under water?

If you have suffered damage to your car while driving through a flooded area, you can check with your insurance company to see if it will cover the repair.Those who have optional comprehensive coverage will be covered in case of floodsbut those who do not have it They will end up paying out of their own pockets“said Mark Jenkins of the American Automobile Association (AAA).

In that sense, most drivers only has coverage in the event of a collisionso if your vehicle was not hit by another car in the middle of the storm, you will not receive compensation for the damages. “Now It is a very important time to talk to your insurance provider and make sure you have the right coverage.. Perhaps those who were not affected by this storm, In a week or two another one is coming“, Jenkins noted.