Experts explain what owners of cars damaged by flooding should do
Lawyers explained how owners of cars damaged by flooding in Istanbul can seek compensation through insurers or government bodies.
Yulduz Salimov2 min read
Because of heavy rain in Istanbul, many vehicles became unfit for use. Owners of damaged cars are finding out how to obtain compensation for the damage. Lawyers explained that what matters first is whether the car is insured, and whether the government administration is at fault.
Lawyer Yakup Erikel drew attention to the administration's responsibility when assessing damage from floods.
It must be understood: flooding may be a natural phenomenon, but negligence is not. Such heavy rain does not happen all the time. Is it your fault? Were the storm drains properly built? The slope of the road, urban development works… All of this, in essence, falls within the administration's responsibility.
If there is kasko insurance
Owners whose cars were damaged should first check their kasko policy. Such policies come in limited, standard, extended and full versions. If the policy covers flooding and inundation, the owner can contact the insurance company and demand compensation for the damage. It is also reported that the kasko insurer must be notified within five days.
If there is no kasko insurance
Lawyer Sibel Eztürk noted that for those who do not have kasko insurance, or whose policy does not cover flooding, there is also a path to compensation.
Citizens who do not have kasko insurance, or whose kasko policy does not cover flooding and inundation, should not worry in the first place. If the administration is at fault for its actions or decisions, they can apply to the relevant government body and demand compensation for the damage.
Erikel described his own case in Ankara. His car became unfit for use after the flooding, and he applied to an administrative court. According to him, judicial experts established the damage and its link to the flooding, and the first court fully placed responsibility on the administration. Erikel sold the car at a low price and wanted to recover the difference from the administration.
According to experts, those affected should assess both the terms of their insurance policy and whether there was administrative fault.
Source: cnnturk.com
