With all these storms, floods, and heat waves we've been seeing lately, climate change is making it riskier to own a car these days. Our rides face all kinds of new threats from extreme weather that can total them in the blink of an eye.
How Climate Change Impacts Vehicles
Climate change is causing an increase in several types of hazardous weather:
· Heavy rain and flooding: Water damage from heavy storms or floods can quickly total a car. Key components like the engine, transmission, and electronics are vulnerable.
· Hail storms: Hail can easily cause dents, cracks, and chips in a car's exterior, sometimes warranting full body repairs. Hail damage often totals newer vehicles.
· Hurricanes and tornadoes: These storms come with high winds that can pick up debris, cause collision damage, or knock over trees onto cars.
· Frigid cold: Freezing temperatures can reduce battery life and cause fluids like gasoline and windshield wiper fluid to freeze.
Vehicles face a wide range of climate perils beyond just accident damage. Properly insured with comprehensive insurance helps cushion the financial blow when catastrophe strikes.
Evaluating Your Car Insurance Coverage
· Comprehensive vs third party: Third-party liability will only cover injury or damage you cause to others. Comprehensive insurance is required to cover climate-related damage to your car.
· Deductibles: Higher deductibles mean more out-of-pocket expenses for you per claim. Have adequate savings to cover higher deductibles if opting for them to reduce premiums.
· Exclusions: A few policies may exclude coverage for events like floods or storms. Read the fine print carefully.
· Add-ons: Consider extra add-ons like zero depreciation cover, engine protector, and hydrostatic lock cover for flooding.
Reviewing exclusions, limitations, and available add-ons is crucial to avoid major coverage gaps for climate events. This review should happen when you initially get coverage and at each insurance renewal . Consulting with a certified insurance advisor can guide you in customising your policy.
Smart Preventative Measures Against Climate Threats
Beyond solid insurance coverage, there are some practical steps you can take to protect your car from extreme weather:
· Garage parking: If you have garage space, use it to shelter your car from damage from wind, hail, flooding, and other elements.
· Frequent washing: Regular washing helps preserve paint and bodywork from damage caused by pollution, acid rain, sap, and bird droppings.
· Emergency kit: Keep a kit with a tyre inflator, battery jump starter, tow rope, flashlight, reflectors, and other essentials for climate-related emergencies.
· Warning system enrollment: Sign up for local weather and flood alerts so you can take action to get your car to safety when dangerous conditions threaten.
· Maintenance checks: Get regular servicing and checks to ensure cooling, electrical, and other systems are in optimal shape to withstand climate stresses.
Handling Car Insurance Claims From Climate Damage
If your vehicle does sustain damage from severe weather, prompt and proper insurance claiming is key to getting compensated for repairs or total loss as quickly as possible:
File Your Claim Immediately
· Notify your insurer as soon as possible after the incident occurs. Delayed notification can compromise your claim.
· Provide detailed descriptions of the damage and how it occurred. Photos and video documentation are very helpful.
Cooperate Fully with Your Insurer
· Provide access to your vehicle for inspection when needed.
· Submit all required documents for proof of loss promptly.
· Truthfully answer any questions from claims adjusters.
Conclusion
Review your coverage regularly and implement emergency readiness steps to give yourself peace of mind for smooth cruising ahead on the road, whatever the weather. Stay vigilant and protect your prized automobile assets amidst the challenges of climate change. Your journey continues onward!
