Flooded Car? 3 Mistakes That Kill Your Insurance Claim

Your car insurance may not pay for flood damage if you made the wrong moves after the car got submerged. Know what triggers claim rejection before monsoon hits hard.

Here's what happened: Comprehensive motor insurance covers flood damage, but insurers reject claims if the owner's actions — like restarting a flooded engine — caused additional harm.. This 'consequential damage' clause lets insurers deny full claims when the driver worsens the damage after the initial flood event.. Claim rejections spike every monsoon season across India as thousands of policyholders unknowingly void their coverage by mishandling flooded vehicles..

What you should do: Never restart your car if water has entered the engine bay — switch off ignition immediately and leave it off until a mechanic inspects it.. Document everything with timestamped photos and videos of the water level, interior damage, and surroundings before touching or moving the vehicle.. Call your insurer's helpline within 24 hours of the flood incident to register an intimation — delays beyond 48 hours can become grounds for rejection..

Ask your insurer specifically if your policy includes an 'engine protection add-on' — standard comprehensive plans do NOT cover hydrostatic lock (water-damaged engine) unless this add-on is active. It costs roughly ₹800–₹1,500 extra per year and can save you ₹1–3 lakh in engine repair bills.