Okla. Officials Say Flooded Cars Could Come to State

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.”