Driving into flood water may be considered a reckless act by insurance providers, and claims for flood water damage may be refused in some instances, Eric Insurance says.

Accidental flood water damage is covered by most comprehensive policies, though Eric says not all will cover for flood water damage in all instances, and it is important to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to understand what exclusions may apply.

If flood water has reached the lower levels of the doors before receding, mechanical components could be ruined, including the engine and electrical systems.

Victoria State Emergency Services (VICSES) says it only takes water 15cm deep with a flow speed of around 3.6km an hour to float a small car, while a medium-sized car can be moved around by water around 30cm deep.

"It can be easy for motorists to misjudge the danger of driving into flood waters and wind up in a potentially disastrous situation,” Eric said.

Comprehensive policies that cover flood water damage will likely cover the cost of repairing or replacing the vehicle while third party policies are unlikely to cover flood damage.

"Before commissioning any repairs, it is vital to first contact the insurance provider as many cars that have been damaged by flood waters are likely to be written off,” Eric says.