After the Monsoon: Heatwaves and Heavy Rain Expected... Insurance Industry Steps Up to Address 'Vehicle Risks'
Hot and Humid Weather Expected After the "Late Monsoon"
Rising Risk of Vehicle Accidents During Vacation Season
"Be Prepared with Driver Insurance and Vehicle Inspection Services"
As heatwaves and heavy downpours are expected to continue even after the end of the monsoon season, the risk of summer rain-related accidents and vehicle flooding is increasing. With long-distance travel during the vacation season likely to rise in the near future, the insurance industry is emphasizing the need for accident preparedness and preventative measures through driver insurance and vehicle inspection services.
According to the Korea Meteorological Administration on July 7, the average temperature this month is expected to be higher than usual, and overall precipitation is also forecast to be greater than normal. Next month, temperatures are also likely to exceed the seasonal average, and while precipitation is expected to be similar to previous years, some areas may experience heavy localized rainfall.
Even after the recent late monsoon ends, if hot and humid weather and heavy downpours persist, the burden of driving during the vacation season—such as accidents on wet roads and flood damage—could increase. This is because braking distances on wet roads are longer and visibility is reduced, making traffic accidents more likely, and potholes caused by heavy rains can lead to vehicle damage. It is especially important to be cautious of repeated flooding in low-lying roads and underground parking lots.
In response, the insurance industry is strengthening coverage and inspection services for summer vehicle accidents. Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance's Direct Driver Insurance highlights major coverage options such as special riders for traffic accident support, driver fines, and attorney fees for car accidents. Customers who sign up for the premium plan can also prepare for risks of vehicle damage caused by potholes or roadkill through a special rider that covers sudden accident repair costs while driving.
In addition to coverage after accidents, preventive vehicle inspection services are also being expanded. Since July 1, AXA Insurance has been operating a summer vehicle management service to meet the increased demand for vehicle maintenance due to more long-distance driving and heatwaves during the vacation season. Customers with AXA’s personal auto insurance can receive free safety inspections for engine oil, brake fluid, battery, tires, and coolant. The company also offers discounts on maintenance services such as air conditioner filter replacement.
As the insurance industry strengthens coverage and related services for summer vehicle accidents, experts advise consumers to distinguish and verify the scope of coverage for each policy. Driver insurance focuses on covering expenses like criminal settlements, fines, and attorney fees that drivers may incur after traffic accidents, while compensation for damages such as vehicle flooding depends on whether the customer has added a special rider for single-vehicle accidents to their auto insurance’s own damage coverage.
An insurance industry official stated, "During the summer vacation season, long-distance driving increases the risk of both traffic accidents and flood damage, so it is important to check each insurance product’s coverage. It is also crucial to inspect your vehicle before traveling and avoid areas at risk of flooding as preventive measures."
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