Auto insurance covers multiple losses, but coverage greatly varies by policy and carrier. For example, your auto insurance policy might or might not cover water damage to your car. You should understand the situations under which water damage coverage applies before experiencing such damage. Below are some things to note about water damage coverage.

You Need Comprehensive Coverage

Car insurance is available in different forms, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. You need comprehensive coverage, which covers different losses apart from collision coverage, to pay for flood damage.

Unfortunately, many people don't have comprehensive coverage since the government hasn't made it mandatory. Comprehensive coverage also requires significant investment (in premium terms) compared to other coverage. However, you should consider the coverage because of the losses it can save you in case of damage.

Many Policies Only Cover Parts Permanently on the Car  

Coverage details vary by policy and insurance carrier. However, most insurance companies exclude content damage when compensating for water damage. In insurance terms, car content includes everything that lacks a permanent attachment to the car.

For example, comprehensive coverage will compensate you if floodwater damages your car's engine since the engine is a permanent car part. However, the coverage is unlikely to help if floodwaters damage an aftermarket GPS mount in your car.

Many Policies Only Cover Sudden Damage

Auto insurance, like other forms of insurance, mostly helps with sudden and not gradual damage. Thus, your insurance company will likely compensate you for water damage if you can prove that the damage was sudden.

For example, the coverage may help if floodwaters enter your car and short its electrical system overnight. However, you might be out of luck if you want compensation for the damage over several months or years. Always contact your insurance company as soon as possible if you suspect water damage to your car.

The Policies Only Cover Accidental Damage

Lastly, don't forget that auto insurance only covers accidental damage. Many insurance companies won't compensate you for damage due to your negligence. For example, an insurance company might not compensate water damage that occurs because you left your car's door open in the rain. The insurance company expects you to take care of the car.

Evaluate your insurance needs before buying your policy. You should also evaluate your insurance needs at least once every year during coverage renewal. That way, you can always have the best protection at the most reasonable cost. 

Contact a local auto insurance agency to learn more. 

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