AUGUSTA, Ga. - When Hurricane Helene moved through the region, floodwaters might have partially or fully submerged your car.

That can lead to extensive damage and costly repairs, according to experts.

Here's what to do after the waters recede, according to State Farm Insurance:

First, survey potential damage. Note the depth of the floodwaters in relation to your car. Avoid starting a flooded car; this will cause more damage if there is water in the engine.

Be sure to act quickly. Submersion of a vehicle in salt water -- which is more damaging than fresh water -- makes the chances of corrosion much higher. Start drying out your vehicle as quickly as possible, and contact a towing service to get it back to higher ground. Oil, transmission fluid and lube may need draining before a tow.

File a claim. Your insurance company, along with a qualified mechanic, will uncover how extensive the problems caused by flood damage may be. Among other inspections, they will: