Car Fire Safety: Dealing With Car Fire And About Fire Insurance

Your car is possibly one of your most prized possessions. You went through a lengthy process of test drives and comparing specifications before you found the perfect four-wheeler. After a lot of careful consideration, you also purchased a motor insurance policy to keep your car as safe as possible. Unfortunately, disaster can strike at any time. An accident or an overheated engine could lead to your entire vehicle catching fire. Depending on the kind of policy you have, your car insurance company could help you deal with the financial losses. But, you also need to know what to do immediately to protect yourself and those around you. Here’s a look at what you need to remember if your car catches fire while you’re driving:

The second you notice any smoke or flames, pull the car over to the side of the road. Unlock all the doors, roll down the windows and switch off the ignition.

It’s dangerous to remain in the car. Get out as soon as you can. If you have passengers with you, assist them. Make sure you take a second to move safely. Do not walk into oncoming traffic. Please do not attempt to save personal belongings. Your life is far more valuable!

Your car has many electric wirings and combustible liquids. The flames will spread quickly and could lead to an explosion. Move as far away from the vehicle as possible, but stay off the road. If you can, try and alert oncoming traffic about the danger.

If you have easy access to a fire extinguisher in your car, you can try to put the fire out. You should attempt this ONLY if it is safe to get close to the vehicle. Whatever happens, do not open the bonnet or the boot of your car.

Once you and all your passengers are safe, you must inform the traffic police and the fire department about the situation. The cops will help keep the area clear by diverting traffic. Of course, the fire department will help extinguish the fire.

Your four-wheeler insurance company needs to know about the situation. Get in touch with them as soon as possible to notify them about the fire. They can help you get started on the claims process.

Sometimes, your car might catch fire while you’re in the middle of traffic. If this is the case and you cannot move the four-wheeler safely, get out as quickly as possible. If the other vehicles can move away from your car, advise them to do so. Then, move away from the burning vehicle. Do not attempt to extinguish the fire as you may get hit by oncoming traffic.

Fires that occur after an accident are the most dangerous. If you’ve just met with an accident, try and get out of the car safely. Make sure you help your passengers out as well, especially those who are hurt or injured. Do not try to extinguish the fire. Your main priority should be your safety and the safety of those around you.

Nobody ever expects their car to catch fire, but there are a few things you can do to lower the chances. Ensure you get your vehicle serviced regularly. By doing this, you can catch electrical issues right at the start. Remember, most car insurance companies will not entertain claims that arise due to negligence.