For many in Aguadilla, a car is more than just transportation—it’s an investment. However, living in the “Garden of the Atlantic” means your vehicle is constantly exposed to a harsh tropical climate. From the salt spray at Crash Boat to the torrential rains of hurricane season, the elements can take a heavy toll.
While we often think of insurance only in terms of accidents, understanding how the climate affects your car—and what your policy covers—is essential for every Puerto Rican driver.
1. The Silent Killer: Salt Air Corrosion
If you live in coastal neighborhoods like Borinquen or Highland, you are likely familiar with the “haze” that settles on windows. That haze is salt, and it is highly corrosive to metal.
Does Insurance Cover Rust?
It is a common misconception that insurance will pay to fix rust.
- The Reality: Standard auto insurance (even Full Cover) typically classifies rust and corrosion as “wear and tear” or “mechanical breakdown.” Since these are gradual processes rather than sudden, accidental events, they are generally not covered.
- The Exception: If rust forms as a direct result of a covered accident (for example, a scratch from a collision that wasn’t repaired properly), you might have a claim.
Prevention Tip: Wash your car at least twice a month, paying special attention to the undercarriage. A high-quality wax acts as “sunscreen” for your paint, blocking salt from reaching the metal.
2. Tropical Heat and Your Battery
Did you know that extreme heat is actually harder on car batteries than extreme cold? In Aguadilla, where temperatures regularly hit the high 80s, battery fluid can evaporate, leading to internal damage.
- Pro Tip: Have your battery tested every six months. If your car struggles to start after a long day parked at the Aguadilla Town Center, it’s time for a replacement.
- Insurance Connection: Ensure your policy includes Roadside Assistance. If your battery dies while you’re out, a quick jump-start or a tow to a local Aguadilla shop is just a phone call away.
3. Hurricane and Flood Protection
In Puerto Rico, we don’t just worry about rain; we worry about storm surges and flash floods.
- Comprehensive Coverage is Key: This is the specific part of your “Full Cover” policy that protects you from “Acts of God.” If a tropical storm causes a tree to fall on your car in Victoria or if rising waters flood your engine, Comprehensive coverage will pay for the repairs (minus your deductible).
- The “Marbete” Limitation: Remember, the mandatory Seguro Obligatorio does not cover flood or hurricane damage to your own vehicle.
4. Protecting Your Interior from UV Rays
The Caribbean sun doesn’t just damage paint; it cracks dashboards and fades upholstery. This might seem cosmetic, but it significantly reduces your car’s Resale Value—the amount an insurance company will pay you if the car is ever “totaled” in an accident.
- Solution: Use a windshield sunshade whenever you park outdoors. It can lower the interior temperature by up to $30^\circ F$ ($16.6^\circ C$).
5. Maintenance Checklist for the West Coast
To keep your car “insurance ready” and running smooth, follow this local checklist:
- Tire Pressure: Heat causes air to expand. Over-inflated tires are prone to blowouts on hot asphalt like the PR-2.
- Wiper Blades: Tropical downpours require perfect visibility. Replace blades every 6 months as the sun degrades the rubber.
- Coolant Levels: Don’t let your engine overheat in the Ramey traffic. Check your coolant (antifreeze) levels monthly.
Conclusion: Prevention is the Best Policy
Insurance is your safety net for the unexpected, but maintenance is your shield against the inevitable. By taking care of your car’s exterior and interior, you ensure that if you ever do need to file a claim, your vehicle’s value remains as high as possible.
Is your car protected for the upcoming hurricane season?
Don’t wait for the storm warning. [Contact our Aguadilla office today] to verify that your policy includes Comprehensive coverage for floods and wind damage.
