Motorists in the UK have been cautioned that driving through floodwaters during Met Office warnings could not only result in a costly repair bill but also invalidate their insurance, according to motoring experts. The Met Office has issued yellow and amber weather warnings for heavy rain, leading to significant flooding in some areas with a month’s worth of rainfall falling in just one day.
Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, highlighted the risks involved in driving through floodwaters, stating that insurance companies may refuse to cover damage if the driver knowingly took avoidable risks when alternative routes were available. He emphasized that while insurance may pay out for unavoidable damage, deliberately driving through floodwaters could lead to a rejected claim, especially if there is evidence of the driver’s poor decision-making, such as videos or photos.
Conway also outlined the potential severe damage vehicles may incur if submerged in floodwater, including costly repairs or the need for engine replacements. Stranded vehicles in flooded areas may face challenges in being reached by recovery services, causing further delays and frustrations for drivers.
Moreover, drivers who experience flood damage to their cars could see a significant increase in their motor insurance premiums. An example shared on Reddit revealed a driver facing a £3,000 insurance hike after their car was damaged by floods, raising concerns about the affordability of keeping the vehicle in the future.
Insurance investigators may scrutinise drivers’ actions, especially if recorded on social media platforms like TikTok, to determine if avoidable actions led to the damage. Conway advised drivers to prioritize safety, avoid flooded areas when possible, and document situations where driving through floodwaters becomes unavoidable due to unforeseen circumstances to strengthen the insurance claim process.
Drivers are encouraged to turn back and seek alternative routes if faced with flooded roads and only proceed when it is safe to do so, to avoid risking their safety and insurance coverage. By taking precautionary measures and making informed decisions, motorists can protect themselves from the damaging consequences of driving through floodwaters during adverse weather conditions.
The warnings serve as a reminder for drivers to exercise caution and prudence while navigating flooded areas, prioritizing safety and responsible driving practices to avoid potential risks and financial implications associated with driving during Met Office weather warnings.