Flood-Totaled Autos: Where Do They Go In Oklahoma?

Flooded cars are almost certainly considered a total loss. In Oklahoma, if you have comprehensive auto coverage, you’re covered for flood damage to your car. If your car is swept into the water and submerged, stay calm and wait for the car to fill with water. Once the car is full, you can open a door and swim to the surface. If your car has been in a flood, it might be too expensive to repair. This is because water can enter the engine's air intake, leading to various problems. If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, it may help to repair or replace your vehicle after a flood.

Comprehensive auto coverage can help pay for repairs or replacements

Comprehensive auto coverage is an optional coverage that protects your vehicle from damage caused by incidents that are outside of your control and are unrelated to a vehicle collision. This includes theft, vandalism, glass and windshield damage, fire, accidents with animals, weather, or other acts of nature.

In the state of Oklahoma, comprehensive coverage may help to repair or replace a covered vehicle after a flood. It is important to note that comprehensive coverage does not cover damage caused by collisions with objects such as trees or buildings.

Comprehensive coverage can provide peace of mind, knowing that you are covered in the event of unexpected incidents. It is a valuable addition to your auto insurance policy, especially if you live in an area prone to weather-related disasters or if your vehicle has a high cash value.

When considering comprehensive coverage, it is essential to evaluate your personal preferences, financial circumstances, and the value of your car. If you reside in an area with a high rate of car theft or natural disasters, comprehensive coverage can be particularly beneficial. Additionally, if the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle is beyond your financial means, comprehensive coverage can provide financial protection.

In summary, comprehensive auto coverage is a valuable option to safeguard your vehicle from unforeseen events. It covers a range of incidents, including weather-related damage, theft, vandalism, and accidents with animals. By assessing your individual needs and the value of your vehicle, you can determine if comprehensive coverage is the right choice for you.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible

Contacting your insurance company as soon as possible after a flood is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps expedite the claims process, enabling you to get back on your feet more quickly. Secondly, it ensures that you comply with policy requirements, as most flood insurance policies have a 30-day waiting period before they take effect.

When contacting your insurance company, it's essential to provide as many details as possible about the incident. This includes documenting the damage, taking photos, and keeping an inventory of damaged items. It is also recommended to document all communications with your insurance company, confirm representations made by insurance personnel in writing, and respond promptly to their requests.

If your car was affected by the flood, comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy may help repair or replace your vehicle. Contact your insurance agent to file a claim for your vehicle, and they will guide you through the necessary steps. Remember to avoid starting any repairs until an adjuster has inspected the damage, as this is a requirement for processing your claim.

Additionally, if you have experienced wind or hail damage to your property, most standard homeowners' insurance policies cover these perils. However, review your policy terms carefully, as some policies may include restrictions or higher deductibles for hail damage.

Take photos of the damage and, if possible, of your car submerged

Taking photos of your car after a flood is an important step in the insurance claims process. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for taking effective photos of the damage and, if possible, your car submerged:

• Prepare the Vehicle: Before taking any photos, ensure you clean your car to remove any dirt or debris that might obscure the damage or important features. This will help provide a clear view of the affected areas. Park the car in a well-lit area, preferably during daylight, to ensure adequate lighting and avoid shadows in your photos.
• Capture Multiple Angles: It is important to photograph your vehicle from multiple angles, including the front, rear, both sides, and all four corners. This allows the insurance company to see the car from every possible perspective and assess the full extent of the damage.
• Detail the Damage: Focus on capturing close-up photos of the damaged areas, such as dents, scratches, or water marks caused by the flood. Make sure to include any custom parts or upgrades that may have been affected. Try to fill the frame with the damage to ensure the camera's focus and exposure settings adjust correctly.
• Include Adjacent Panels: In addition to the damaged areas, take photos that show at least one undamaged, adjacent panel. This provides context and helps show the extent of the damage in relation to the rest of the vehicle.
• Use Proper Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial for capturing clear and accurate photos. Try to position the light source behind and above the camera at a 45-degree angle. This reduces glare and reflections and ensures the camera's focus is on the damage, not the light source or reflections.
• Avoid Reflections: Reflections can be challenging to manage when photographing cars, especially those with shiny surfaces. Try to keep the camera level with the damage but not aimed directly at it to avoid capturing your reflection. Using a dry erase marker to highlight the damage can also help draw attention to the affected areas.
• Capture the Broader Scene: If possible, include photos of the surrounding area to provide context. Capture road conditions, signage, and the position of the car relative to these elements. This can help insurance adjusters understand the circumstances of the flooding and the impact on your vehicle.
• Include a Timestamp: Make sure your photos are timestamped, especially if they are taken immediately after the flood or accident. This can usually be enabled in the camera settings on smartphones or digital cameras.
• Submit Photos Promptly: Once you have taken the necessary photos, follow your insurance company's guidelines for submitting them promptly to support your claim. Most insurance companies accept digital photos submitted via email or online platforms.
• Keep a Record: It is advisable to keep the photos until relevant claims or coverage periods have expired. This ensures that you have a record in case any issues arise in the future regarding the damage or insurance claim.

Remember, these photos are crucial for documenting the extent of the damage and supporting your insurance claim. Take your time, ensure the damage is clearly visible, and provide a comprehensive record of the flooding's impact on your vehicle.

The insurance company will determine if the car is totaled based on its value and repair costs

In the event of a total loss, an insurance adjuster will consider several factors to determine the payout amount. These factors include the vehicle's age, make and model, condition, and more. The insurance company will also take into account the cost of repairs and the car's value to decide if it is worth fixing.

Your car's actual cash value (ACV) is the amount an insurer determines it is worth right before the accident. This value accounts for depreciation, which is influenced by factors such as age, wear and tear, and mileage. To determine the ACV, the insurance company will assess the replacement cost by identifying a similar vehicle and its price, calculating depreciation, using guidebooks and databases to find comparable vehicles, and adjusting the value based on local market conditions.

If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, it may help cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle after a flood. Comprehensive coverage can assist in situations where your car sustains damage from floodwater. It is important to contact your insurance agent promptly to file a claim and initiate the necessary steps for repairs or replacement.

In Oklahoma, flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), managed by FEMA. This coverage is separate from standard insurance policies and must be purchased through an agent or insurer participating in the NFIP. It is designed to restore your property to its pre-disaster condition, covering the building itself and permanently fastened items like light fixtures, flooring, and cabinets. For an additional premium, you can also buy coverage for your personal possessions.

If your car is totaled, you may be able to keep it with a salvage title

If your car is flooded, you may be able to keep it, but it will need to be repaired. If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, it may help to repair or replace your vehicle after a flood. Contact your insurance agent to file a claim.

If your car is totaled, you may be able to keep it and apply for a salvage title. A salvage title is a designation applied to vehicles that have been damaged and are considered a total loss by an insurance company. The process for obtaining a salvage title varies by state, but generally, you will need to provide documentation of the damage and proof that the necessary repairs have been made.

If you choose to keep your car, there are several steps you should take to prepare it for long-term storage:

• Clean and wash your car, removing any dirt, mud, grease, or bird droppings that could damage the paint.
• Fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent rust and other issues.
• Protect the battery by either disconnecting it or using a maintenance charger to keep it charged.
• Get an oil change, especially if the car will be stored for more than 30 days.
• Cover the tailpipe and air intake openings to prevent pests from entering the vehicle.
• Overinflate your tires to prevent flat spots from developing.
• Do not use the parking brake, as it may corrode and fuse to the rotors. Use parking stops or chocks instead.
• Use a car cover to protect the vehicle from the elements and prevent sun damage.
• Store the vehicle in a secure garage or indoor space to protect it from weather and potential damage.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your car remains in good condition while it is not in use. It is also important to maintain your car insurance during this time, as cancelling your policy could result in higher rates or gaps in coverage.

Frequently asked questions