Hurricane Sandy: Avoid Buying a Flood Damaged Car
Hurricane Sandy Avoid Buying a Flood Damaged Car
Hurricane Sandy: Avoid Buying a Flood Damaged Car
Hurricane Sandy inflicted hundreds of millions of dollars in damages across the East Coast, including more than 230,000 vehicles, with 190,000 in New York alone, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
The auto industry has skyrocketed as a result with owners looking to repair or replace storm damaged cars. But boom also comes with increased risks for buyers. The National Insurance Crime Bureau warned car buyers against a scam aggregated by Hurricane Sandy; selling flood-damaged cars without telling buyers about its waterlogged history.
Unscrupulous dealers will salvage the flooded vehicles, patch them up, and resell them but concealing the vehicles’ history. Water damage can lead to electrical and mechanical issues down the road. Here are some tips to help you avoid buying a flood damaged car.
Look for signs it has been submerged. Mildew, rust on screws or other metal parts, water stains or faded upholstery, discoloration of seatbelts, and any dampness or moisture can all indicate water damage.
Buy from a reputable dealer- check to make sure you buy your vehicle from a reputable dealer, and have a trusted mechanic look for water damage.
Do a background check. You can check the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System; insurers, self-insured entities, salvage pools, auctions, and junkyards are required to report all total-loss vehicles to this Justice Department within 30 days. Used car buyers can also learn more about the history of the car by checking the NICB’s VINCheck system. It has an identification number, so used car buyers can learn more about the history of a car and see if it’s been involved in a flood damage claim.
At the Byrnes Agency, our staff will help you weigh your budget against potential risks when selecting your Connecticut Auto Insurance coverages, limits, and deductibles. We’ll not only review your current needs but also any anticipated changes that can impact your coverage in the future. And we’ll discuss any discounts that may be available to you to help lower your premium. Give us a call today at any of our 3 locations below.
- Dayville Office
860-774-8549 - Norwich Office
860-886-5498 - Woodstock Office
860-928-7928