Floods & Floods
If the car owner has the possibility, as protection against floods, it is crucial to move the car to a higher place outside low-lying areas prone to flooding. If relocation is not possible, flood barriers such as sandbags can be used.
If the vehicle has been flooded or damaged by hail, it is important to act promptly. In the case of a flood, do not start the vehicle, as water may have damaged the electronics or engine. "Any attempt to start could worsen the situation. It is ideal to call a roadside assistance service, which will provide advice on further steps or tow the car to a reliable service center. It is also desirable to disconnect the car battery and not leave the car under voltage," says Jáchym Knedlhans, a supporter of used car sales from Direct auto.
Hailstorms
An even more current problem for drivers is the looming threat of hailstorms. Damage to a car can reach hundreds of thousands of crowns, with the most common repairs ranging from 15,000 to 50,000 crowns. Smaller hailstones, on the other hand, may not necessarily cause visible damage. Large hailstones, flying at speeds over 150 km/h, can not only deform the bodywork but also damage headlights, glass, and potentially the interior of the car. The damages in this case are also significant.
The best protection against this natural element is to park the vehicle in a garage or under cover. If this option is not available, it is advisable to consider investing in special protective covers (if you want tarps) against hailstorms. "Investing in a tarp in the low thousands will save you a large investment in repairs and prevent the devaluation of the vehicle upon subsequent sale," emphasizes Knedlhans.
If the car owner does not own such tarps or covers, improvised means can be used, such as old mattresses, blankets, or even inflatable objects, such as rafts. These items can serve as temporary protection to help minimize damage.
After a hailstorm, it is necessary to check the vehicle for visible damage, such as dents, cracked windows, or damaged headlights. In the case of significant damage, we recommend having the car inspected by a mechanic who will assess the extent of the damage and determine if repair is possible. Especially with dents, cracked windows, or damaged seals, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage, such as corrosion or water leakage into the interior. However, it is not just an aesthetic matter. The law prohibits driving a car with a crack in the windshield in the wiped area, within reach of the wipers, wider than 2 centimeters. In such a case, the driver can only drive home or to a service center in an emergency. Violation of this provision can lead to fines and penalty points.
It is also advisable to check how your car is insured. "Standard liability insurance does not cover damages caused by floods or hailstorms. Car owners should therefore consider whether it is advantageous for them to have comprehensive insurance or appropriate coverage attached to liability insurance," concludes Knedlhans.
About Direct auto
The company Direct auto was established in 2021 and belongs to the Direct family group of companies, which includes Direct insurance, Fidoo, Direct auto, and Birne. The entire group has a turnover of over 5 billion crowns and serves 450,000 customers. Direct auto is a seller of used and new cars, including authorized service for 8 brands. The portfolio of services also includes flexible operational leasing from Birne. Clients can use the services of Direct auto and Birne at 7 branches.
