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Drivers urged to take precautions during flood season

April 24, 2018

With flooding in parts of B.C. this week, ICBC is urging drivers to be cautious in and around flooded areas.

Here are ICBC's tips for drivers in and around flooded areas:

Make copies of your documents: In the event the flooding becomes so severe that an evacuation is required or you cannot return to your home for other reasons, it's a good idea to make copies of all your important documents including your B.C. driver's licence and/or B.C. Services Card/B.C. identification card, passport, original birth certificate, marriage certificate and Canadian citizenship document. It's also a good idea to have a copy of your vehicle registration and Autoplan insurance policy. Store these documents in a waterproof container.
Park on higher ground: Find a safe location on high ground for the temporary storage of your vehicles and seasonal vehicles such as motor homes, trailers or snowmobiles located in low-lying areas that may be subject to flooding. If your vehicle is uninsured, you can purchase a 1-to-15 day temporary operating permit from any Autoplan broker before you operate it on the road.
Pack an emergency kit: Have an emergency kit readily accessible in your vehicle in case you have to abandon your vehicle. It's recommended to have a three-day supply of goods for each member of your family.

Plan for alternate routes: Floodwaters can quickly wash out roads and bridges. That's why it's important to be prepared and plan an alternate route in case the road you want to use is closed. Check drivebc.ca for the latest road conditions and Emergency
Info BC for up-to-date flood information.
Leave your vehicle: If your vehicle stalls on a flooded stretch of road, be prepared to abandon it and retreat to higher ground. Wait for the water to recede before you return to retrieve your vehicle.
Don't start your vehicle: If you believe that your vehicle has been damaged by water, do not attempt to start it as it may cause greater damage. Get your vehicle towed to a qualified professional to ensure your engine and all other operating systems and fluids levels are safe to prevent problems in the future.

ICBC's optional comprehensive or specified perils coverage provides customers with protection for vehicle damage caused by rising water. If you don't have this coverage, you may purchase it from an Autoplan broker before a flood warning. Please visit or call your Autoplan Broker for details.
Customers are advised to not use their vehicle to store their belongings. Any goods or household items in your vehicle are not covered by vehicle insurance.
Check if your insurance is about to expire; you can renew your policy up to 55 days before the expiration date.
Customers who are unable, due to a flood warning, to visit or call an Autoplan broker for their insurance renewal or questions, should contact our customer service contact centre at 1-800-663-3051.
Customers can report a claim online at icbc.com or by calling ICBC's Dial-a-Claim at 604-520-8222 or 1-800-910-4222.