FLOOD-DAMAGED CAR WARNING

Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson and Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland 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 car buyers can take steps to protect themselves when purchasing a used car, such as: 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; and Have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase.

Holland encouraged 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. The Web site, www.nicb.org, contains information about flood-damaged cars.