Importance of Insurance During Typhoon Season

MANILA, Philippines - Picture this: A storm passes over Manila and causes lots of floods. A car owner lives in an area that gets flooded, and so his car sustains flood damage. Flood damage includes water in mechanical components such as the transmission and the engine, which will lead to expensive repairs. Flood water can also bring debris and moisture that affects the electrical systems, clogs the cooling systems of the car, and contaminates brake fluids. Starting up the car will result to the car breaking down.

Typhoon season Philippines


After the storm, the car owner goes to his insurance provider and files for his car insurance claim, since his policy includes coverage for acts of God, and has a provision for flood damage. Thanks to this, he doesn’t have to spend a lot of money for the cost of repairing his car to make it work like brand new.

Does this sound familiar?

If so, then congratulations! You are making sure that you are taking good care of your car. Having insurance means that you want to protect yourself even from expensive repairs that come with the wear and tear of your vehicle over time, or due to unexpected circumstances.

If not, then it's probably time you consider getting comprehensive car insurance, on top of your Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) insurance.

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As everyone knows, CTPL is mandatory insurance for all car owners, but it does not protect you or your car from expenses due to acts of god, or acts of nature. Getting comprehensive car insurance with coverage on acts of god, acts of nature, and other damages can help you mitigate expenses when your car is in need of repairs because of the abovementioned reasons.

Keep in mind that getting insurance isn't the ONLY way to protect yourself and your car from unwanted expenses for repairs and restoration. There are other measures to keep your car safe, especially this coming typhoon season.

1. Park your car in a safe place

If you are living in a low-lying area, try parking your car in higher grounds. You can park at malls or especially-designed parking lots during this rainy season. Paying for a parking ticket is cheap, compared to the expenses related to car repair, or buying a new car.

2. Keep your car dry

Even if you're living in a neighborhood located on high ground, your car might not escape the heavy rains. Buy a car cover to protect your car from the rains while it is parked outside your home! This also prevents the need of frequently washing the car due to rainwater residue.

3. Drive with care

As well, try to avoid driving in flooded areas to prevent flood water from entering your car. Keeping the inside dry as well as the outside is a priority! Make sure that you have full visibility when you're driving in the rain. If you can't see due to the hard rains, it is better to not venture out with your vehicle at all.

4. Stay updated with the news

Stay tuned to AM radio stations and news stations so you are updated with the latest information about the rains and floods. If you have a smartphone and a Twitter account, follow the MMDA twitter account and the other relevant government twitter accounts to know which roads are safe to drive in, and which areas to avoid. Traffic apps like Waze also help, since the information is "crowdsourced" via other people using the app. Stay tuned to weather reports to.

5. Have an emergency kit in your car at all times

Prepare and keep an emergency kit in your car, in case of, well, emergencies. Pack a flashlight with extra batteries, a tool box, a series cable, the proper screwdrivers and jacks, as well as a raincoat, extra clothes. Another worthwhile investment is a floody carbag. It helps prevent floodwaters coming into your car, just like a raincoat for your car when you park it. Keep a copy of your insurance information and copies of important roadside assistance numbers in your emergency car kit, as well!

Don't let the typhoon season do damage to your car. Stay proactive about protecting your car from damage by keeping these in mind.

This post is brought to you by: MoneyMax.ph

MoneyMax.ph is the Philippines’ leading financial comparison site where you can save money by comparing financial and car insurance products and services – fast, comprehensive, and free. We aim to give the power of smart purchase decisions back to Filipino consumers by providing everything they need to become financially savvy. Like us on Facebook to get the latest tips on how to save.



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