As we have mentioned in our previous article, car insurance coverage does not include car damage caused by floods.
This means you are not liable to file an insurance claim to cover the damage regardless of the condition due to such a natural disaster despite being a comprehensive policyholder.
Special perils coverage
But, there is an exception if you have purchased additional special peril coverage in your comprehensive policy. This add-on cover will enable you to claim car damage repair under the Own Damage claim.
What is additional special perils coverage? Read here to get more information regarding the cover.
To your knowledge, your vehicle’s No Claim Discount will be affected upon making a claim. Thus causing your following insurance premium to soar next renewal.
You may consider this worth than having to foot the high repair bill yourself.
Steps to file a flood damage claim to repair car damage
Let Bjak explains the steps to file an insurance claim caused by the flood.
Ensure the image is clear.
- Make sure to take a clear picture of the damage to your vehicle. This is the first step you need to do before submitting a claim.
- Lodge a police report. Ensure you file a police report to include in your insurance claim.
- Don’t start your engine. Never attempt to restart the engine of a car that has been submerged in floodwater.
- Contact your insurer tow truck. Inform your insurance company and wait for them to tow your car to panel workshop
Purchase special perils coverage
Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Bhd revealed that the take-up rate for special perils cover is still low. Only 11% or about 123,000 of the 1.11 million customers sought additional natural disaster coverage in their comprehensive plans last year.
Noting the increased risk of flooding nowadays, we recommend you consider taking out additional special perils coverage in your comprehensive policy.
You will usually have to pay an additional 0.5% of the sum insured for your car to enjoy this coverage. Note that the additional premium varies across insurers.
Hence, in deciding whether you need this coverage, consider the use and location of your car, your financial capability, and the insurers that offer this coverage. Let’s plan and prepare ahead for our safety.
Bjak is one of Malaysia’s largest car insurance comparison sites. Get free quotes at Bjak and renew car insurance and road tax online in just 5 minutes.
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