Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson and Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland this week warned of yet another potential impact from the hurricanes that recently hit the gulf coast. Flood-damaged cars could soon be making their way to Oklahoma car lots.
"When a flood-damaged car is sold, by law, its title should note the damage," Edmondson said. "A less-than-reputable car dealer can take a car that's been totally submerged, clean it up and sell it as they would any other used car. It can mean huge profits for the car dealer, and a huge headache for the car's new owner."
Edmondson said there are several steps car buyers can take to protect themselves when purchasing a used car.
* Shop at a reputable dealership.
* Inspect the car's interior for water stains.
* Don't purchase a car that smells of mildew.
* Ask the dealer about the car's history and the location of its previous owners.
* Look under the hood for signs of rust.
* Have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase.
Holland is also encouraging consumers to check with their insurance agents before buying a vehicle they think may be flood-damaged. Most insurance companies have access to the National Insurance Crime Bureau registry of cars damaged by the recent hurricanes.
Oklahoma residents can visit www.nicb.org to get more information about flood-damaged cars.
"A car that's been submerged will have mechanical problems that may not be apparent on the car lot," Edmondson said. "It's important to ask questions. A visit to the mechanic before making a purchase can save you a trip to the junkyard later."
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