Collection Safe Driving 2026.06.21

Compilation of Driver's Checklist to Reduce Vehicle Flood Damage During Typhoons and Heavy Rain

Items drivers should check in advance to avoid underground parking, low-lying roads, and flood-prone areas and minimize vehicle damage.

#Car Insurance #Typhoon #Vehicle Flooding #Driver's Checklist #Driving in Heavy Rain

Vehicle damage during typhoons and heavy rain can occur in an instant. Cars parked in underground garages can get flooded, or engines can stall when attempting to navigate through flooded roads. Especially at night, it can be difficult to gauge the water's depth, and a small judgment error can lead to hefty repair bills.

This checklist outlines where to park your vehicle before a typhoon, which roads to avoid, and what to refrain from doing when a flood risk occurs. It's also wise to check your auto insurance coverage before the typhoon hits, rather than after an incident.

Avoid Flood-Prone Underground Parking Lots

Avoid Flood-Prone Underground Parking

If a typhoon warning is issued, avoid underground parking garages, riverside areas, and low-lying parking lots. Instead, park in higher ground or areas with good drainage. Be sure to check for flood barriers and access control notices from your apartment management office.

확인 포인트 주차 위치·지하주차장

Prohibit Parking Near Rivers and Embankments

No Parking by Riversides or on Embankments

Parking areas along rivers may seem fine under normal conditions but can quickly flood during heavy rain. If a typhoon is forecasted, it's safer to move your vehicle in advance and avoid entering any restricted areas.

확인 포인트 하천 수위·통제 구역

Check Wiper and Washer Fluid Condition

Check Wipers and Washer Fluid Condition

Maintaining visibility during heavy rain is crucial for safety. If your wipers are shaking or streaking, replace them and check the condition of your washer fluid and streak remover. Even minor visibility hindrance on wet roads can significantly increase risks at night.

확인 포인트 와이퍼·유막·워셔액

Check Tire Wear and Air Pressure

Inspect Tire Wear and Air Pressure

Tire grooves play a vital role in channeling water away on wet roads. If your tires are worn down, braking distances can increase, and the risk of hydroplaning rises, so it's advisable to check air pressure and wear conditions before a typhoon.

확인 포인트 마모 한계·공기압

Avoid Entering Flooded Areas

Do Not Enter Flooded Areas

If the water level appears to be more than halfway up your wheels, or if there are significant waves after a vehicle passes, it's best not to enter. Water entering the undercarriage can damage the engine and electrical systems.

확인 포인트 물 깊이·우회 경로

Do Not Start the Engine After Flooding

Attempting to start the engine after your car has been submerged can cause more damage by allowing water to enter the engine. If it is already flooded, do not start it; first move to a safe location and then call your insurance company and towing service.

확인 포인트 시동 금지·견인 요청

Check Vehicle Insurance for Coverage

Check Auto Insurance Coverage for Vehicle Damage

Compensation for vehicle flooding due to typhoons and floods can vary based on your policy terms. Checking your comprehensive vehicle damage coverage, single accident coverage, and exemption conditions in advance can expedite response after an incident.

확인 포인트 자차 담보·면책 조건

Record Parking Location and Vehicle Condition

Record Vehicle Photos and Dashcam Footage

Taking photos of your parking location and vehicle condition before the typhoon can help with damage verification and insurance claims. Also, check your dashcam settings to ensure it’s powered, but beware of battery drain if parking for a long time.

확인 포인트 주차 사진·블랙박스

Consider Switching to Public Transport

Consider Switching to Public Transportation

If a typhoon warning is strong and traveling isn't absolutely necessary, consider adjusting your plans or using public transportation instead of driving. In strong winds and heavy rain, even experienced drivers can easily miss lanes and obstacles.

확인 포인트 운전 필요성·대체 이동

Save Emergency Contact Numbers

Store your insurance company’s emergency number so you can quickly contact them in case of flooding, tire punctures, or battery issues. Since communication may be unstable, it’s also a good idea to share your insurance company and vehicle number with your family.

확인 포인트 보험사 번호·차량 번호

The most important principle when driving in heavy rain is not to force your way through flooded roads. If you encounter a flooded area, turning back may be the safest and most economical choice. If your vehicle is already submerged, do not attempt to start it; first contact your insurance company and towing service.

한눈에 보기 10개

Avoid Flood-Prone Underground Parking Lots

주차 위치·지하주차장

Prohibit Parking Near Rivers and Embankments

하천 수위·통제 구역

Check Wiper and Washer Fluid Condition

와이퍼·유막·워셔액

Check Tire Wear and Air Pressure

마모 한계·공기압

Avoid Entering Flooded Areas

물 깊이·우회 경로

Do Not Start the Engine After Flooding