"Vehicle flooding accidents during the rainy season"... Financial Supervisory Service advises checking single-vehicle accident riders

*This content was translated by AI.

The risk of traffic accidents is increasing as summer vacation and the rainy season approach. Long-distance travel and heavy downpours are the main causes. In response, the Financial Supervisory Service and the insurance industry provided consumer action guidelines on the 8th to prepare for secondary highway accidents and vehicle flooding incidents.

Secondary highway accidents are on an increasing trend annually. The number of accidents rose by 30%, from 50 cases in 2021 to 65 cases in 2025. Casualties also increased by 46% during the same period, rising from 63 to 92. The fatality rate for secondary accidents reaches 43.8%, which is about five times higher than the general accident fatality rate (8.8%). Vehicle flooding accidents also concentrate in the summer. Of the annual number of flooding cases, 65% (4,589 cases) occurred during the rainy season in July and August. The average summer flooding damage over the past five years is 44.3 billion won, more than double the normal damage amount of 20.3 billion won.

The Financial Supervisory Service urged the "Bitbox" action guidelines when accidents or breakdowns occur on highways. Bitbox refers to a step-by-step procedure: turn on hazard lights, open the trunk, evacuate outside the guardrail, and report via smartphone. Many victims suffer injuries while remaining inside their vehicles or nearby. Therefore, swift evacuation is the top priority. After ensuring safety, evidence at the accident scene must be secured. Subsequently, the accident should be reported to the insurance company and the police.

Safe driving techniques for rainy roads during the rainy season are also essential. On wet roads, braking distance can more than double. Drivers should reduce speed by 20% below the posted limit. Ensuring a sufficient safe following distance is also important. Before departing, check weather forecasts to detour around areas prone to flooding. Wiper and tire conditions must be inspected in advance. Tire air pressure should be maintained at 10% to 15% higher than usual. Drivers should also pay attention to the "Emergency Evacuation Alert Service" provided for vehicles at risk of flooding. This service does not require app installation or clicking on specific links.

Finally, checking automobile insurance riders is necessary. Tire blowouts or fuel shortages can be resolved through the "Emergency Dispatch Service Rider." Coverage for this rider begins 24 hours after the enrollment date. It must be purchased the day before departure. To receive compensation for vehicle flooding damage, the type of rider must be verified. Normal compensation is possible only by enrolling in the "Single-Vehicle Accident Damage Rider," which covers flooding accidents and fires.

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*This content was translated by AI.