Guide
A flooded car after a storm in Orlando
Don't start it. Water in the engine can wreck it the moment it turns over. Have it towed on a flatbed to a shop, and call your insurer before you pay for anything.
One local towing company. You get its name and the total before the truck is sent. Check the name on Sunbiz · Who pays us
On this page
Don't start it
If the water got above the bottom of the doors, assume it reached the engine air intake, the electrics or both. Turning the key can do the real damage. Disconnecting the battery if you know how is a reasonable step; otherwise leave it.
Get it towed, on a flatbed
A flooded car may not roll freely or shift into neutral, and its electrics may not work. Ask for a flatbed. After a big storm every towing company in Central Florida is busy, so expect a wait and ask for the total before you agree.
Insurance
Flood damage to a car falls under comprehensive coverage, if you have it. Call before repairs and ask whether they want the car at a particular shop. Take photos of the waterline inside the car before it's moved.
How often storms come this close
Since 2000, 13 tropical storms and hurricanes have passed within 69 miles of downtown Orlando (NOAA HURDAT2). Charley in 2004 came within 4 miles, Ian in 2022 within 45, and Milton in 2024 within 29. Most of the flooded cars after a storm sat in parking lots and low streets, not on the highway. The storm table.
Don't drive into it
The National Weather Service says 12 inches of rushing water can carry away most cars. You can't see how deep a flooded road is, or whether the road is still there.
Questions people in Orlando ask
Can a flooded car be saved?
Sometimes, if it wasn't started and the water was fresh and shallow. A shop has to check it. Insurers often total cars with deep water inside.
Will I get a towing fee after a storm?
Yes, a tow you ask for after a storm is priced like any other, and there may be a wait. Get the total first.