Storm Warning for Motorists

As weather forecasters say we could be in for a week of thunderstorms, motorists are warned to check their insurance policies before venturing into the elements.

The first named storm of the season, Storm Agnes, is due to hit the UK with strong winds and heavy rain, with gusts of up to 80mph in some areas.

Quotezone.co.uk, a leading car insurance comparison website, says insurance policies might not cover any damage to cars caused by driving through flash floods. It warns motorists to check their policy exclusions carefully; even if routes are partially blocked, drivers should think twice before using waterlogged roads.

Suppose drivers find themselves stuck in the car during a thunderstorm. In that case, official advice from the Met Office is to wind up the window and stay inside the vehicle – the car’s metal frame should act as a conductive Faraday cage, passing the current around the passengers and into the ground, should it be struck by lightning.

If motorists have an open or soft-top vehicle, they should avoid driving if they know thunderstorms are coming.

Greg Wilson, Founder of Quotezone.co.uk, comments: “Motorists who have taken out third party only or third-party, fire and theft insurance wouldn’t be covered for any storm damage to their vehicles – only fully-comprehensive policyholders are likely to be protected in those cases.

“If a storm is predicted, look at official flood warnings, avoid roads likely to flood and allow more time for your journey. Note that you may have to pull over and wait it out if the downpour affects your visibility – not forgetting to put on the hazard lights.

“Unfortunately, if motorists do decide to drive through waterlogged roads, there’s a real risk that they won’t be covered for any resulting water damage to the car – even fully-comprehensive drivers.”

Greg also warns motorists to go out to ensure their cars are roadworthy before setting off, including checking tyre tread and windscreen wipers.

Quotezone.co.uk compares prices across all types of car insurance, including breakdown cover and niche products such as motor trade insurance – helping around 3 million users every year find better deals on their insurance.