-- If your vehicle sustained visible damage, note the damage and take
photographs for claims adjusters.
-- If your vehicle was driven in high water, do not restart it as this
could cause more damage.
-- Any flooding above the bottom door of a vehicle, which saturates the
carpet, is a clear indication that the vehicle was driven in high water.
-- Vehicles that have been flooded may have damage to the air intake
system, which can result in severe engine damage. Sensitive electronics
such as airbags may also be affected.
-- Any vehicle suffering flood damage should be taken to a reputable
repair shop for inspection after you report a claim. Do not repair flooded
vehicles yourself as it often takes proper equipment to detect all storm
damage.
-- To find a reputable repair shop ask a repair shop for credentials such
as AAA's Approved Auto Repair, ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and BBB
(Better Business Bureau) certifications.
HOMES
-- Check your house and vehicle for damage.
-- Prepare an inventory of damaged property.
-- Try to store undamaged property in a protected place where it won't be
stolen.
-- Take photographs of damaged property for the claims adjuster before
any clean-up is done.
-- Cover broken windows and other holes to prevent further damage.
-- Dry out the area as much as you can.
-- If carpet is soaked, remove it and carpet pad. Keep a two-foot square
piece for the claims adjuster.
-- Run AC, dehumidifier and fans constantly. Repair if necessary.
-- If power is out, disconnect all computers and appliances from
electrical sources.
-- Open cabinet doors and elevate furniture so air can circulate and aid
in drying out process.
-- Wash wet CDs or LP records with warm water and dry.
-- Save wet books or photo albums by putting them on edge in a frost free
freezer.
-- Test drywall for moisture softness. If soft, cut holes at base to help
dry out.
-- Try to be present when the adjuster inspects your damage.
Members, who have their homes or vehicles insured with AAA Texas, can call
the AAA Texas claims hotline at 1.800.672.5246 to file storm damage
claims.
AAA Texas, an affiliate of AAA National, has been serving Texans since
1902. Today, more than a million AAA Texas members benefit from the
organization's roadside assistance service, travel agency, financial
products, insurance products and services, automotive pricing, buying and
financing, trip planning services, and traffic safety programs.
Information about these products and services is available on AAA Texas'
web site at www.aaa-texas.com.
Contact Information: Contact: Rose Rougeau 1.800.888.5521 (ext. 6552) Carol Thorp 714-885-2333