However, uninsured drivers may be surprised to learn that their state's required coverage does not cover damage from floods and other natural disasters. According to the Insurance Information Institute's analysis of 2018 data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the most recent data available, only 78 percent of insured drivers are adequately covered in the event of a natural disaster.

Here's how auto insurance works after a natural disaster and what to do if the worst happens.

Comprehensive coverage pays for damage from natural disasters

Comprehensive coverage covers damage caused by natural disasters such as floods, hail, tornadoes, and wildfires, as well as other causes that do not involve a collision with another vehicle.

It provides coverage up to the current market value of your vehicle, less your comprehensive deductible. If your car is declared a total loss — that is, the cost of repairing it is close to or greater than its value — your insurer will pay you the current retail value minus the deductible.

Unless you drive a leased car or have an auto loan, this coverage is usually optional. If your current policy does not include comprehensive coverage and you would be unable to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your car in the event of a natural disaster, you should consider adding it. If you drive an older car, you probably don't need it because the coverage won't pay out much, if anything, in a claim.

While you can add comprehensive coverage at any time, it will not pay out in the past. It must be added to your policy before your vehicle is damaged for it to take effect.

File comprehensive claims as quickly as possible

After a natural disaster, insurance companies and repair shops may become overwhelmed with claims, so file a comprehensive claim as soon as possible. “The sooner your claim is received, the sooner you will be able to receive assistance,” says Jessica Castillo, senior claims manager at Metromile.

Castillo recommends providing photos of your car prior to the damage to expedite the claims process. Many businesses allow customers to file claims online or via a mobile app, which can help customers avoid long lines.

Even if you can't afford to pay your deductible, Castillo recommends having your car inspected by a mechanic even if you don't file a claim. You'll find out what the repair estimate is, as well as whether your car can be driven safely while you save up for the deductible.

If you do not file a claim right away, take extra precautions. Castillo suggests noting the date of the incident and how it occurred, as well as photographing the damage. You should also look for ways to avoid further damage, such as drying out your car after a flood to avoid mold growth.

Consider other coverage options

According to Dave Powell, vice president of auto claims for Travelers Insurance, other coverage options can provide financial peace of mind.

If your car is being repaired for a covered claim, rental reimbursement coverage will pay for the cost of a rental car or public transportation. Powell inquires, "How are you going to arrange for alternative transportation and how are you going to pay for it" while your car is in the shop. If you're not sure, this could be a good addition to your policy.

In the event that your new car is totaled, new car replacement coverage will pay for a new car of the same make and model, less your deductible. The coverage will pay out for totaled cars that are 1 to 5 years old, depending on the insurer.

Take precautions and mitigate further damage

In a crisis, your and your loved ones' safety should take precedence. However, if you are given enough warning of a coming storm, the following tips can help reduce the risk of car damage:

• If a flood warning is issued, move your car to higher ground, such as the top of a hill or a high level in a parking garage.
• To avoid hail or wind damage, park your car in a garage or other shelter.
• To keep water out of your garage, fill it with sandbags or install flood barriers.
• Parking under trees or power lines should be avoided.
• If you have multiple vehicles and need to evacuate, try to get all of them out of the disaster zone.
• Avoid driving through standing water.

Examine the damage to your car after the storm has passed. Don't start it if it's flooded. Instead, disconnect the battery, roll down the windows if possible, and have the vehicle towed to a safe location.

Check for cracks in the windshield or windows, and cover any that you find with a tarp to prevent further damage to the interior of your vehicle.