Insurer gives advice on car insurance claims amid floods

With the North Island continuing to be battered by heavy rain, many car owners are wondering what their insurance covers if their vehicle has been affected by the resulting floods, land slides, and other damaging events.

AA Insurance has received more than 2140 claims relating to the severe weather, with more than 800 of those being for vehicles.

As a result of this, it is reminding its customers that all damage caused by the severe weather is covered under one claim, including homes, contents, and vehicles.

That means there’s no need to make multiple claims if you have more than one policy with the insurer. There will also only be one excess to pay.

In determining the extent of damage caused to items like a car, AA Insurance says the best thing to do is to take photos of the damage and hold onto receipts if emergency repairs have been made.

Claims for vehicles that are determined to be a total loss will be settled as soon as possible with money going straight to the customer according to the insurer.

The Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ) also issued advice for business owners to stick to local warnings while placing things out of reach of flood water including moving vehicles to higher ground.

“Business insurance can cover everything from damage to premises, lost or damaged stock, equipment or goods owned by others, vehicles and cover for not being able to operate,” said ICNZ chief executive Tim Grafton, reports Insurance Business NZ.

If in the event a similar situation occurs, it is recommended people do not enter flood water or operate their vehicles if flooded.

Driving only when it is essential to do so is also recommended as well as keeping up to date with any road closures or diversions on Waka Kotahi’s website.