Does car insurance cover flood damage? What drivers should know after Milwaukee flooding
In what experts described as a "1,000-year rain event," Milwaukee experienced historic rainfall over the weekend, recording its second-wettest day on record dating back more than 150 years.
For many drivers, the full extent of damage won't be clear until the waters recede, and the repair bills start piling up.
That raises a pressing question: What are the options for cars damaged by flooding waters?
More: Wisconsin flooding: Flooding resources, FEMA aid, closures in Milwaukee area from severe weather
Does car insurance cover flood damage?
If your car is damaged or ruined by flooding, your auto policy's comprehensive coverage may help pay to repair or replace your vehicle, minus your deductible — though coverage details can vary by insurer.
Comprehensive coverage typically protects against water damage from flooding, heavy rain, hailstorms, and other storm-related causes, according to Progressive.
This coverage also applies to other storm damage. For example, if a falling tree branch breaks your windshield or hail dents your car, comprehensive coverage can pay for repairs. Without comprehensive, you'd be responsible for repair costs out of pocket.
Keep in mind many insurers impose 'binding restrictions' when a major storm is imminent. That means you generally can't add or change coverage right before a storm, so it's wise to review your policy well in advance.
If you do not have comprehensive coverage, your flood insurance will not do justice as that only covers homes and personal properties, but not vehicles, which are only covered by car insurance.
What kind of flood damage does car insurance cover?
Flooding can happen in different ways, and comprehensive coverage may help pay for repairs in most cases, minus your deductible — depending on the circumstances.
Even if you're only driving through a flooded street or large puddles, or parked in a flooded area — not necessarily caught in a major flood — your insurance may still cover the damage.
Floodwaters, regardless of the severity of the event, can cause a range of problems for your vehicle — from cosmetic issues like rust and fogged headlights to mold inside the interior. Comprehensive coverage typically pays for these repairs, minus your deductible.
Your insurance may also cover water damage to your engine. However, if your engine becomes fully submerged, your car is likely to be declared a total loss. In that case, your comprehensive coverage would help cover repair or replacement costs, minus your deductible, according to Progressive.
What isn't covered by flood damage?
Most electronics that weren't installed by the automaker likely won't be covered. This may include:
Stereos, tape decks, and CD players
Scanners, two-way mobile radios, and CB radios
Televisions, video game systems, and computers
GPS devices
Car phones
Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text
Brandi D. Addison covers weather across the United States as the Weather Connect Reporter for the USA TODAY Network. She can be reached at baddison@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Does car insurance cover flood damage? Tips after Milwaukee floods
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