It has been 12 years since SuperStorm Sandy ravaged the east coast of the United States, leaving behind devastation that is still fresh in the minds of many, especially those who own and care for collector cars. The impact of that disaster was not only widespread but also taught some hard lessons about the importance of preparation. For many, the storm was a wake-up call, and unfortunately, the motoring world learned these lessons the hard way.
The Human Nature of Unpreparedness
Why were so many unprepared for SuperStorm Sandy, despite warnings and the potential for disaster? It boils down to human nature. Most of us believe, on some level, that the worst won’t happen to us. “It’s always someone else’s problem,” we think—until it’s not.
In the case of SuperStorm Sandy, this mindset led to thousands of destroyed homes and collector cars. It marked the worst insurance loss event in history for collector cars. Unlike homes, which are fixed in place, cars can be moved. So why weren’t they? The answer is simple—many people thought it could never happen to them. This painful and costly lesson still resonates today, especially for those who witnessed hurricanes ravage states like Florida, Louisiana, and Texas from afar, thinking it was always a problem for “other places.”
History Repeats Itself: The September 2024 Storms
Fast forward to September 2024, and history has, unfortunately, repeated itself. A similar disaster has struck thousands across Florida, South and North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. Lives have been tragically lost, property damage is unimaginable, and once again, the loss of countless collector cars will come into focus as the dust settles. The lesson from 12 years ago remains relevant: preparation is the key, yet the southeast panhandle states were hit harder than ever before.
The unfortunate reality is that these kinds of storms, once seen as rare, are becoming increasingly common. The takeaway? We all need a disaster plan, not just for our homes but for our valuable possessions, like collector cars. And the time to act is before disaster strikes.
Protecting Your Collector Car: The Importance of Pre-Planning
While preparing for a disaster can feel overwhelming, having a plan in place is essential, particularly for those who own prized collector vehicles. In this Month in Motoring, we’ll focus on how to create a preemptive plan to safeguard your collector car from natural disasters.
Start by assessing the potential risks in your area. Are you near a body of water that could flood? Is your property vulnerable to wildfires? Then, consider your car’s condition. Is it easy to start? Can it be elevated in your garage if needed? Do you have more than one car to worry about?
From there, create a clear escape plan. Identify a safe destination where you can move your car if needed. For example, let’s say you own a 1957 Thunderbird that is sometimes difficult to start, but once it’s running, it performs well. Your garage is in a low-lying area, and there’s a multi-level public parking structure five miles away. Your plan could involve moving the car to that parking garage in the event of a storm with heavy rainfall.
This kind of plan not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind. With your car secured, you can focus on other priorities, such as the safety of your family and home.
When Plans Are Put to the Test
The recent tragedy in North Carolina and the surrounding states was unprecedented in many ways, and even the best-laid plans might not have been enough for some. Beyond the damage caused by the storm, communication systems and internet access were knocked out, leaving many stranded without reliable navigation. In these moments, a simple paper map could have been a lifesaver.
Hurricane evacuation plans are second nature to many Floridians, who have been putting them into practice for years. But no matter where you live, whether you’re in a coastal community or further inland, it’s critical to have an evacuation plan in place for yourself, your family, and your collector cars. Preparation can make all the difference when disaster strikes.
Final Thoughts: Prepare, Protect, and Plan
As we reflect on this month in motoring, the key message is clear: preparation is vital. From SuperStorm Sandy to the storms of 2024, the lessons remain the same. Don’t wait for disaster to strike before taking action. Protect your loved ones, your home, and your prized collector cars by creating a well-thought-out evacuation and safety plan.
Happy motoring, and stay safe.
If you are looking to insure your classic vehicle or truck, contact Classic Auto Insurance today by calling 888-901-1338.
