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Insurers Respond Rapidly to Residents, Businesses Hit by Deadly Tornadoes; Claims Filing Process Begins

Eight States Were Struck on Memorial Day After Major Twisters Impacted Missouri and Oklahoma

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For immediate release
New York Office: 212-346-5500; ³¾±ð»å¾±²¹°ª¾±¾±¾±.´Ç°ù²µÌý Ìý

NEW YORK, May 28, 2019—U.S. insurers are sending disaster response teams to help victims in the multiple states impacted by yesterday’s tornadoes, according to the .

The reported a total of 55 tornadoes on Memorial Day in Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Ohio. The latest outbreak occurred days after major tornadoes swept through Jefferson City, Mo. and El Reno, Okla.

Damage caused by tornadoes is covered underÌýÌýandÌýÌýpolicies, and under the optional comprehensive portion of anÌýÌýpolicy. Nearly four of every five U.S. drivers (77 percent) purchase comprehensive coverage in addition to liability insurance, based on an I.I.I. analysis of 2016 National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) data.

Consumers who have sustained tornado-caused property damage should:

  • Contact your insurance professional andÌý.
  • Take photos of any damage.ÌýA photographic record is useful when making an insurance claim.
  • Make temporary repairsÌýto prevent further loss from rain, wind or looting; these costs are reimbursable under most policies, so save the receipts.
  • Compile a detailed list of all damaged or destroyed personal property.Ìý Do not throw out damaged property until you meet with an insurance adjuster. If you have aÌý, it will make the claims-filing process easier.
  • Hold off on signing repair contracts.ÌýDo your due diligence, deal with reputable contractors, and get references. Be sure of payment terms and consult your insurance adjuster before signing any contracts.
  • Check to see if you’re eligible for additional living expenses (ALE).ÌýStandard homeowners andÌýÌýpolicies pay for the extra charges (e.g., temporary housing, restaurant meals) you incur over and above your customary living expenses if your home is uninhabitable because of an insured loss. Save all related receipts and, if you have vacated your home, make sure your insurer knows how to contact you. Ìý

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The I.I.I. has a full library of educational videos on itsÌý. Information about I.I.I. mobile apps can be foundÌýhere.

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