Contaminated Katrina cars being resold.

• Position: Life in America - Brief Article

Hurricane Katrina has presented yet another twist to unsuspecting consumers. In the hardest hit sections of New Orleans, cars were sitting in water contaminated with e-coli and fuel for up to four weeks before insurance companies could get in and start pulling these automobiles out. Environment officials have advised that these vehicles can be decontaminated by washing with soap and water or a combination of water and bleach; they then can be resold to the public.

The Progressive Group of Auto Insurance Companies is offering the following tips to help drivers avoid buying a flood-damaged car:

* If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

* Inspect the...