Jesse White alerts consumers to beware of flood-damaged cars

CHICAGO – Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is warning car buyers to watch out for flood-damaged cars from Hurricane Ian.

 

White says titles for potential flood vehicles will be closely scrutinized in an extra effort to protect consumers.

 

He said consumers interested in purchasing used vehicles to beware of flood-damaged cars resulting from flooding caused by Hurricane Ian or other natural disasters.

 

“We are taking steps to ensure that flood-damaged vehicles from hurricanes do not receive clean titles in Illinois,” White said. “While my office will do everything it can to protect Illinoisans, it is always important that consumers also take active steps to protect themselves from purchasing damaged vehicles.”

 

In an effort to protect Illinois consumers, White has instructed his office to closely monitor title applications involving potential flood vehicles. This includes ensuring vehicles coming from counties impacted by flooding are properly identified and labeled as flood vehicles when applicable.

 

White urged consumers to gather as much information as possible about a vehicle before making a purchase.

 

Consumers are encouraged to obtain a National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVITIS) vehicle history report by visiting https://vehiclehistory.bja.ojp.gov/.