With a combination of torrential rains, extreme winds, flying debris, and tidal surges, hurricanes can do a lot of damage not only to you, but your property as well. Hurricanes can cause widespread damage to coastal communities and bring flooding hundreds of miles inland.
When thinking of a hurricane, people often think about the immediate danger and effect of the storm. Rarely do people take into account that the flooding from a storm can cause long term damage to your home and vehicles. More people actually die from the flooding than the initial forces of the hurricane every year.
Car Damage
Flooding can cause major harm to a vehicle. Because most all of our cars today have an electronic system, they are quite vulnerable. Anything within the car that is controlled electronically is at risk including your airbag and anti-lock braking system. These problems can lead to major safety issues while driving the vehicle.
If you unknowingly purchase a car which has been flooded within its lifetime, you can expect to see large repair bills, a low resale value, and a drop in safety. Flood damaged cars might be hard to spot at first but there are a few things you can check in order to minimize the risk.
How to Spot Flood Damaged Cars
- Make sure to turn the ignition switch and check all of the dashboard lights
- Test all of the interior and exterior lights, radio, A/C, heater, turn signals, and anything else that might contain electrical components.
- It is always a good idea to have a mechanic thoroughly check the car.
- Checking a CARFAX report is a great way to check for any flood damage.
Signs of Flood Damage in Your Car
- A musty moldy odor coming from the interior of the car
- Off-colored and miss match colored upholstery
- Damp carpets
- Rust appearing around the doors, hinges, and floor pedals
- Moisture trapped in the interior and exterior lights
Make sure to be very aware of a car’s history when purchasing it used. Following these few steps will drastically lower the risk of unknowingly purchasing a car with flood damage.
Here at U.S. Safe Room, we want you to be prepared for anything that might negatively affect you in the event of a natural disaster. For the initial strike of high winds and flying debris, we have created a line of high strength safe rooms in order to protect you, your family, valuables, or employees. Make sure you are prepared for anything that might be coming your way.
For more information on our line of safe rooms, give us a call at: (828) 355-7155
