With floods having wreaked havoc in Ekurhuleni, those on the West Rand are sitting tight. Stormy weather that may result in flooding has been predicted. With damage running into billions, insurance companies will no doubt be inundated with claims.
There are two types of vehicle insurance policies one can look into. Comprehensive vehicle insurance will reimburse drivers for loss due to damage caused by something other than a collision with another vehicle or object, such as fire, falling objects, catastrophic storms, vandalism, or contact with animals such as birds or deer. This includes flooding.
Third party or third party, fire and theft policies will not cover flood damage
According to AA Insurance, the Ombudsman for short term insurance in South Africa has warned that vehicle insurance will not cover engine damage caused by driving through deep water. Flood damage should be regarded as the result of flooding rains and huge seas: vehicles swept off causeways, flooded bridges and vehicles engulfed by giant waves crashing over sea walls.
What do I need to know when my vehicle has suffered flood damage?
• If you believe the vehicle has suffered flood damage, do not attempt to switch on the ignition. Check the outside of your vehicle for any damage.
• Have your vehicle examined by a qualified mechanic at the earliest opportunity to assess the damage caused by flood conditions.
• Report the damage to your vehicle insurance company as soon as possible to check if you’re eligible to claim for any damage.
• If your vehicle is not drivable, your agent or claims centre may be able to save you time and money by having the vehicle towed directly to the repair facility instead of to a temporary storage facility.
• If your policy includes this coverage, your insurer may be able to provide you with a replacement rental vehicle.
For home insurance, you are covered only up to the amount for which you have insured your possessions.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine
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