As the rainy season begins, several regions across the country are experiencing road damage and vehicle losses due to heavy rains. To help those facing car damage from floods, the Mexican Association of Insurance Institutions (AMIS) has shared crucial recommendations for activating your vehicle insurance coverage.
Background on AMIS and Relevance
The Mexican Association of Insurance Institutions (AMIS) is a prominent organization that represents various insurance companies in Mexico. With over 29,000 insured vehicles affected by hydro-meteorological phenomena in 2024, particularly in Guerrero, Estado de México, Jalisco, and Mexico City, AMIS’s guidance is essential for policyholders.
Key Recommendations
- Verify Your Policy: Ensure you have an active policy that includes material damage coverage. In some cases, the robo coverage may also apply depending on the contract conditions.
- Do Not Attempt to Start Your Vehicle: If your car has been submerged in water, avoid trying to start it. This could worsen internal damage and potentially invalidate your insurance coverage.
- Document the Damage: Take photographs and videos of your vehicle and its surroundings. These visual records are crucial when filing a claim with your insurance provider.
- Report the Incident Immediately: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Have your policy number, vehicle location, and other relevant details handy to expedite the claims process.
- Request an Adjuster: An adjuster will conduct an initial assessment of the damage. Refrain from moving your vehicle unless it’s in a restricted area or poses a risk.
- Prepare Your Documentation: Generally, you’ll need your active policy, official ID, and vehicle registration to proceed with the claims process.
- Understand Your Deductible: Be aware of the percentage of damage you’re responsible for covering. Material damage and robo policies typically have a deductible outlined in the general conditions.
- Review Your Policy Carefully: Although most comprehensive or limited coverage policies include flood-related incident protection, it’s crucial to review each contract individually. Exclusions or compensation limits may exist.
Additional Context and Prevention
AMIS emphasizes the importance of avoiding driving through flooded areas and adhering to recommendations from civil protection agencies. Taking these precautions helps preserve personal and material safety while minimizing risks.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What should I do if my car is damaged by floods? A: Verify your policy, avoid starting the vehicle if submerged, document the damage with photos and videos, report the incident immediately to your insurance company, request an adjuster for assessment, prepare necessary documentation, and understand your deductible.
- Q: Can I move my flooded vehicle? A: Only move your vehicle if it’s in a restricted area or poses a risk; otherwise, refrain from moving it until an adjuster assesses the damage.
- Q: How do I know if my policy covers flood damage? A: While most policies include flood-related coverage, it’s essential to review each contract individually for exclusions or compensation limits.
- Q: What information do I need to file a claim? A: You’ll typically need your active policy, official ID, vehicle registration, and details about the incident to proceed with the claims process.
- Q: How can I prevent flood-related car damage? A: Avoid driving through flooded areas and follow recommendations from civil protection agencies to ensure personal and material safety.
