Flooding & Protecting your Vehicle

The historic floods that wreaked havoc on our area back in August caused damages to roughly 100,000 insured vehicles. Several car dealerships lost inventory if not all due to flooding. We want remind our customers that by living in an area prone to flooding we should all be prepared ahead of time. 

In the case of flooding here are some ideas to protect your vehicle:

1. Car Insurance

Many people do not find it necessary to get flood insurance but nowadays as flooding is becoming more of a frequent natural disaster, we recommend that you rethink not insuring your vehicle for water damage. Water damage can equal major repairs and high service costs. Save yourself the financial stress and give yourself peace of mind with flood protection.

2. Flood Covers

Flood covers can be a great resource in helping your vehicle sustain water damage. There are many waterproof covers available in auto parts stores and online. We recommend that you use one cover under and one cover over, then use rope and heavy duct tape to fully enclose and protect your vehicle.

3. Inflatable Raft

Sounds funny, Right? Well, since we are in an area that is prone to flooding we should be always be prepared to think outside the box, as well. The inflatable raft can be used to create your own car boat and hopefully protect your vehicle from major engine repair. We happen to have heard a story in which this man drove onto an inflatable raft. He filled this raft with air and ensured a high level of security. Apparently the raft was tied to the house with the car sitting on top for more than ten days of heavy rain. Who would of thought!?

4. Place Vehicle on a higher Level.

This is another highly cost effective solution in protecting your vehicle from flood damage. Try parking your vehicle on higher ground, such as an upper level parking garage or jacking up your vehicle and placing your vehicle on blocks.

These methods may or may not be a guarantee, but they can at least help in preventing severe water damage and high vehicle service costs. Regardless, after any flood we do recommend bringing your vehicle in for service to get it checked out. If your vehicle was damaged in the recent flooding and you have questions regarding insurance, Louisiana has released a statement reminding insurers of the flooded vehicle requirements. Read Here.