Drivers warned to check motor insurance for flood cover

Insurance comparison site estimates that up to 30% of UK drivers may not be covered for flood damage to vehicles.

As the effects of the floods continue to take their toll across the UK, and with further warnings expected, online insurance comparison site Gocompare.com urges drivers to check their motor insurance policy for flood coverage. The company estimates that up to 30% of UK drivers may not be covered should their vehicle be subject to flood damage.

Hayley Parsons, managing director, Gocompare.com, commented, “Third party or third party, fire and theft policies are low cost and straightforward contracts, but they “do what they say on the tin”. Drivers with these policies will not be covered for flood damage, and our figures show that almost 30% (28.1%) of UK drivers opt for either one of these policies; however, only those with a comprehensive motor insurance policy will be able to claim for flood damage on their car insurance.”

“Generally, drivers will opt for either a third party only, or third party fire and theft policy as these will cost less than comprehensive cover. Sometimes this will be the right cover for the individual if the value of the vehicle is very low. Also, younger drivers will take out third party, fire and theft policies because the cost of a comprehensive policy will be too high. There is nothing wrong with purchasing these policies, but it is essential in times such as these that drivers know exactly what is and isn’t included in their policy cover.”

Fully Comprehensive Insurance covers everything that third party fire and theft does, but the car will generally be covered for flood damage. In addition drivers will normally be covered for windscreen cover, personal effects, accidental damage and medical expenses too. In recent years, insurers have made changes to comprehensive cover, making the difference in cost as minimal as they can, and therefore making the extra cover a better buy.

Gocompare.com issues the following advice to drivers whose vehicles have been affected by floodwater:

- If flood warnings have been issued in your area, think about where you could move your car to prevent flood damage

- Never attempt to drive through floodwater - all engines are affected if you drive through flood water. Turbo-charged and diesel engines are most vulnerable

- If your car is submerged in floodwater, do not try to start your car – take steps to extract the water if you can and leave to dry out

- If the car has been submerged in water, this does not automatically mean it is a write-off as it depends on the level of water that has got into the engine. Sometimes cars will just dry out, with no lasting damage to the vehicle.

- Any items inside the car, such as stereos, upholstery and carpets will generally be covered under a comprehensive insurance policy

- If you need to have your vehicle towed, or get temporary repairs, save all receipts and take reasonable steps to protect your vehicle from further damage

For advice in the event of a flood you can visit the Environment Agency's website at environment-agency.gov.uk or call 0845 988 1188 for the national advice line.