If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you're probably no stranger to the destruction they can cause. Before the next one makes landfall, be prepared and protect yourself, your family, and your property.
FEMA already has a great guide on hurricane preparedness, but we thought we'd include some helpful advice to help you mitigate damage to your vehicle when the next tropical storm blows through. FEMA may know disaster preparedness, but we're the experts when it comes to vehicular safety and insurance-related subjects.
When the flood gates open
Floods of Biblical proportions can still happen today. When they do, the best way to protect your car is to get it to higher ground and away from susceptible areas.
If you act in time (and are lucky), your vehicle will weather the storm unscathed. However, if your car has sustained flood damage, make sure to have an experienced mechanic thoroughly inspect it once the storm has passed. Some damage may not be visible to the untrained eye, so it's wise to err on the side of caution. Don't start your vehicle until your mechanic gives you the okay.
When deadly debris falls
High winds traveling anywhere from 100 to 150 miles per hour make it easy for objects, big and small, to be knocked down or carried away. Likewise, debris-laden floodwaters can strike anything in its path.
To safeguard your car from falling debris, keep it covered, preferably in a garage. If your car must remain outside, make sure it's parked away from trees, poles, or other large objects that could cause harm. As a precautionary measure, tape your car windows in a crisscross pattern before the storm hits. This may keep your windows from shattering — or, at the very least, make the cleanup process a lot easier since the glass will be held together with tape. And, last but not least, remove nonpermanent exterior items.
When driving is unavoidable
If you plan on using your car to evacuate the area, be sure to map out a safe route and stay informed of changing weather conditions. It's also wise to carry emergency supplies in your car and to keep a full tank of gas at all times.
If you must drive during a hurricane, always avoid fallen power lines and flooded streets — they're dangerous and can cause irreparable damage to your car. For more on avoiding flooded roads, check out our insight on reporting flood-related car insurance claims.
When you have to file a claim
Typically, hurricane-related damage is covered by comprehensive coverage in your auto insurance policy. Be sure to call your auto insurance company before you go ahead with the repair or replacement of your car.
If you're an Esurance policyholder, we make it easy for you to report your claim and start the process of getting you back on the road. Just contact us and one of our dedicated claims reps will work with you to resolve your claim quickly and fairly.