Flooding and your car

In recent years winter storms have lashed our coastlines and villages have become islands from heavy rainfall.

But what does this mean for our cars? And, more specifically, how does it affect your car insurance?

The good news is, if you have a fully comprehensive policy you may be able to claim for damage to your vehicle as a result of a flood. However, if you take a risk and drive your car into flood water, not only is it extermely dangerous but you may also not be covered for any damage caused.

Here are our top tips on protecting your car from flooding:

• Keep an eye on weather reports for you area by tuning into local radio/TV stations. For help and advice during a flood call the Environmental Agency’s Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for the latest information. If floods are predicted then try to move your car to higher ground
• Diamond's policy booklet states the policyholder must protect their car from loss or damage. This is likely to include not taking unnecessary risks like driving through a heavily flooded area
• It’s not just your car you are putting at risk by driving into a flood, just two feet of water is enough to sweep a car away
• Don’t just follow the car in front of you through flooded areas. They may have made it through to the other side, but they may have damaged their engine in doing so. Mechanical, electrical, electronic and computer failures are not covered under your Diamond insurance so don’t take the risk of flooding the engine with water
• If your area is flooded and your car is submerged, don't try starting the engine.

If your car is affected by flooding you can call our claims team on 0333 220 2037