CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – With current heavy rains inflicting widespread flooding, AAA Northeast is urging drivers to keep away from flooded roads and regulate their driving habits to accommodate stormy circumstances.
Following the storms, there’s a threat of flood-damaged automobiles hitting the market, probably resulting in pricey points for unsuspecting patrons.
To make sure protected driving in heavy rains, AAA Northeast supplies the next suggestions:
- Activate headlights
- Decelerate to forestall hydroplaning
- Brake sooner and easily
- Create house between automobiles
- By no means ignore street blocks or warning programs on flooded roads
- Keep house should you don’t must drive
When automobiles are flooded, the injury is commonly irreversible. Whereas some automobiles could also be restored to working order, gradual corrosion and electrical points can persist. Roughly 50% of flood-damaged automobiles declared complete losses by insurance coverage firms find yourself again available on the market as used automobiles, inflicting complications for unsuspecting patrons.
AAA Northeast provides steerage on find out how to spot flood-damaged automobiles, together with checking for damp or musty odors, changed or shampooed carpets and fabric, mud and grime on the dashboard, rust on the underside of the car, and indicators of rust, mud, grime, or discoloration in hidden areas. Inspecting electrical parts and getting a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic are additionally beneficial.
To keep away from falling sufferer to flooded automobiles, AAA advises buying a CARFAX Car Historical past Report earlier than buying a used car and being cautious of offers that appear too good to be true. Dishonest sellers could attempt to revenue from the scarcity of used automobile stock and elevated purchaser demand.
By following these precautions, potential patrons can defend themselves from buying flood-damaged automobiles that might flip their dream automobile right into a nightmare.
