15.10.2026 12:10
In Istanbul, hundreds of vehicles left submerged after torrential rain suffered heavy damage, while experts warned vehicle owners. Reminding that the 5-day period for comprehensive insurance notification is in effect, experts pointed out that if an attempt is made to start a vehicle submerged in floodwater, at least 600,000 liras in additional costs could arise.
After severe rains that affected Istanbul, hundreds of vehicles were swept away by floodwaters and severely damaged. Many cars with serious damage to their bodywork, mechanical, and electronic components became unusable, while some of the vehicles will be written off directly. As comprehensive insurance processes begin for vehicles that can be repaired, experts issued vital warnings to drivers who are flood victims.
DO NOT MISS THE 5-DAY PERIOD FOR DAMAGE NOTIFICATION
Citizens whose vehicles have suffered flood-related damage must act quickly so they do not lose their legal and financial rights. Under legislation, damage notification to comprehensive insurance companies must be made within 5 days at the latest. To ensure expert examinations are not delayed and the compensation process starts quickly, they are asked to contact insurance companies without wasting time.
CHECK THE "FLOOD AND WATER INUNDATION" COVERAGE IN YOUR POLICY
Comprehensive insurance policies are offered in 4 main groups: limited comprehensive, standard comprehensive, extended comprehensive, and full comprehensive. To cover the repair or write-off cost of a vehicle damaged by flood, it must be confirmed whether the policy text includes "flood and water inundation" coverage.
NEVER START THE ENGINE: 600 THOUSAND LIRA IN EXTRA COSTS
It is stated that the biggest mistake that can be made with a vehicle submerged in water is turning the ignition. Experts list the major risk awaiting drivers as follows:
- Starting a vehicle submerged in water causes water to directly fill the piston chambers. This makes it necessary to completely remove and overhaul the engine or install a zero "crate engine" in the vehicle. Just because of this mistake, the vehicle owner can face an extra repair bill of at least 600 thousand lira.
- The damaged car must absolutely not be started where it is, and should be transported directly by tow truck to the nearest authorized or private service.
- If the vehicle exposed to floodwater is electric, there is a danger of exposure to high current due to a possible leak in the system. Unauthorized people should not come into contact with such vehicles.