Are You Driving a Ticking Time Bomb? Flood-Damaged Cars Make Their Way To Pennsylvania

Cars that were flooded-out in storms may look fine; however, there is often times hidden water damage. Water damage can affect the electrical system, mechanical systems and compromise safety features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes. It may take months or years for the corrosion to affect the vital electronics. These flood-damaged vehicles pose a serious safety threat to drivers and their passengers. In addition, flood cars can develop mold causing health concerns such as allergic reactions and asthma attacks.

In a recent Carfax analysis, it was reported that there are 325,510 flood-damaged cars currently on the road. That does not include the cars damaged in the recent hurricanes of Harvey, Irma and Maria. It has been reported that there are as many as 650,000 flood-damaged vehicles in Texas and Florida as a result of these recent hurricanes. These flood-damaged cars are typically transported to regions where consumers are less aware of flood damage warning signs. The transportation of vehicles to different states is designed to get the title “washed” resulting in the car having a “clean” title not reflecting its true history.

Pennsylvania is no exception to receiving these flooded-out cars. Currently, according to Carfax, Philadelphia is the third city with the most flood-damaged cars. Pennsylvania law requires car sellers to disclose if a car is flood damaged. However, according to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s consumer advisory on flood-damaged cars, unfortunately, there are sellers who conceal the flood damage. Thus, consumers should learn how to avoid buying these cars.

Here are some signs that the car you are about to buy is most likely a flooded-out car:  1.  The price is so low that it seems too good to be true.  2.  The car has a musty odor or a cleaning solution odor.  3.  Moisture in the interior lights or exterior lights.  4.  Waterlines in hard to clean areas.  5. Dirt or silt in unusual areas, like the glove compartment. 6.  Nearly brand new cars being sold at small time used car lots.

Checking the vehicle history report can help determine whether the car was damaged in a flood. If the car you are considering was ever titled, sold or serviced in Texas or Florida, there is a chance it is a flood car that should be meticulously checked. Don’t put your family at risk of serious injury or death from traveling in a flood car.

10 Cities With the Most Flood-Damaged Cars

If you, a family member or friend has suffered personal injuries as a result of a defective automobile contact Washington & Washington and speak with an attorney for free to determine if you may have a case to further investigate.