HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – After two days of rain, flooded cars peppered the streets of Broward County leaving behind a headache not just for tow truck drivers, but also insurance companies and car dealerships.
State Farm told Local 10 News Friday that they received 625 auto claims as of Friday afternoon.
That marks just one insurance company’s claim tally, with expectations for further increases.
The Mercedes Service Center in Hallandale Beach is flooded with vehicles.
“I have Land Rovers, Porsche Panameras, Mercedes, even a brand-new Lexus back there that are flooded and won’t be running anymore,” said Mercedes Service Center employee Tyler Hunter.
Israel Avila from Brake Kingdom describes the grim situation, with engines locked up due to water damage, emphasizing the backlog in dealing with insurance claims.
“There’s water, water in the engine, and the engine locked up,” said Avila.
“Tell me what it’s like right now dealing with insurance employees?” asked Local 10′s Jeff Weinsier.
“We’re waiting on them because they’re backed up,” said Avila.
Sky 10 flew over Gulfstream Park Thursday, where a Saturn Ion was submerged in floodwaters and had visible water marks inside the car and soaked components.
SHARE YOUR PHOTOS: Flooding widespread as storms sweep across South Florida
After getting a closer look at the damaged Saturn Ion, Weinsier asked, “How high was water in here?”
A watermark was seen inside the gear shift and inside the air intake of the vehicle’s engine.
“Once the water gets in the motor, it’s going to hydro lock the engine,” said Hunter.
At Vera Cadillac, Buick, GMC, and Hummer EV in Pembroke Pines, nine towed-in vehicles undergo assessment, revealing extensive water damage affecting various components.
Ten more vehicles are scheduled to be towed into the Vera Cadillac dealership due to the recent flooding.
Experts advise against restarting stalled vehicles in water, as it could lead to further engine damage.
As abandoned vehicles remain submerged in parts of Hollywood and Hallandale Beach, insurance companies urge affected individuals to promptly file claims to expedite assistance.
Hunter warns of engine damage caused by water intrusion, underscoring the critical need to keep water away from the intake and computer systems.
At Vera Cadillac, Buick, GMC, and Hummer EV in Pembroke Pines, nine towed-in vehicles undergo assessment, revealing extensive water damage affecting various components. Experts advise against restarting stalled vehicles in water, as it could lead to further engine damage.
“Are there certain cars where the intake is lower?” asked Weinsier.
“BMWs and Mini Coopers,” said Avila.
“If someone’s car stalls out in water, what should they do?” asked Weinsier.
“They should leave the car right there. Do not restart it... you’ll be sucking water into the engine through the air filter and air box,” said Hunter.
Many vehicles remain abandoned in parts of Hollywood and Hallandale Beach, some still submerged in water.
Insurance companies advise the public to file a claim immediately if your car has sustained water damage.
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