What to Do If Your Vehicle Was Caught in a Typhoon Flood?
Typhoons can strike with little warning, and one of their most dangerous effects is sudden flooding. When floodwaters rise, vehicles can quickly become submerged or severely damaged. If your car was caught in a typhoon flood, acting quickly and correctly afterward can protect both your safety and your finances. Here’s what to do.
1. Ensure Your Safety First
Before thinking about your vehicle, make sure you and your passengers are safe. Never attempt to re-enter floodwaters to check your car — even shallow water can hide strong currents, sharp debris, or open manholes. Wait until local authorities declare the area safe. If your car stalled while you were driving through rising water, abandon it immediately and move to higher ground.
2. Do Not Start the Engine
Once the water recedes and you can safely reach your car, resist the urge to start it. Starting a flooded engine can cause severe internal damage. Water inside the cylinders, fuel system, or wiring can lead to short circuits, corrosion, or even a complete engine seizure or bent connecting rods. Instead, disconnect the battery (if it’s safe to do so) to prevent electrical issues.
3. Assess and Document the Damage
Before moving the vehicle, take detailed photos and videos from different angles. Capture water lines on the body, interior damage, and any visible debris. This documentation is essential for your insurance claim. Note down when and where the flood occurred, and if possible, include news reports or weather alerts as supporting evidence.
4. Call Your Insurance Provider Immediately
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies in typhoon-prone countries include coverage for “Acts of Nature” or “Acts of God,” which can include floods. Ask your insurer for the exact process: whether you need towing authorization, what documents are required, and where to send the car for inspection. Do not attempt repairs until your insurer has assessed the damage, as unauthorized repairs may void your claim. It's now the insurance companies' turn to pay up, after you have been forced to pay those big insurance premiuns!
5. Arrange for Professional Towing and Inspection
If your insurer doesn’t provide towing, hire a professional towing service to bring your car to a reputable repair shop. Avoid DIY repairs. Mechanics should check all fluids — engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and fuel — for signs of water contamination. Electrical systems, airbags, and onboard computers must also be tested, as flood damage may not be immediately visible.
6. Dry and Clean the Interior Promptly
If the water level reached inside your car, clean and dry the interior as soon as possible to prevent mold and odor. Hose it down with clean water and detergent. Remove floor mats, carpets, and seat covers to air dry. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the process. However, leave the deep cleaning of upholstery and electrical components to professionals.
7. Learn and Prepare for the Future
Once your vehicle is repaired or replaced, take preventive steps. Avoid parking in low-lying areas during storms, install a GPS or tracker that can alert you in emergencies, and consider upgrading your insurance to include comprehensive flood coverage. It’s also smart to keep an emergency kit in your car — including a flashlight, first aid items, and a power bank — for future weather events.
Final Thoughts
A vehicle can often be repaired or replaced, but your safety and peace of mind are priceless. By staying calm, following proper procedures, and working closely with your insurer, you can recover from a typhoon flood with minimal loss and greater preparedness for the next storm.
