Insurers Prepared to Respond if Irene Hits N.C.

Aug 25, 2011

Tips on how to file claims

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CONTACT:  Insurance Federation of North Carolina 

 (919) 834-9773  

https://www.facebook.com/InsuranceFederationofNorthCarolina

 

 

 

INSURERS PREPARED TO RESPOND IF IRENE HITS N.C.

Tips on how to file claims

 

RALEIGH, N.C. -- Aug. 25, 2011 -- Hurricane Irene's path still isn't clear as it makes its way toward the East Coast, but the storm could still cause severe damage even if it does not make a direct hit on North Carolina.

 

Insurance companies have worked steadily this week to have teams ready to respond should Irene strike the state.  The Insurance Federation of North Carolina -- an association of leading insurers that cover property in the state -- issued a list of things to keep in mind as the storm approaches or you encounter damage:

 

1.  Insurance companies are in place to help you recover from disasters.  Though this year is already among the most expensive for catastrophes, with more than $15 billion in losses across the country, the insurance industry remains in position to pay claims and help customers recover.

 

2.  It is important to start the claims process as soon as possible.  Contact your insurance agent or company, or call the company's claims hotline (see list below).  Some hints:

  • If it is safe, survey the damage so you can tell your insurer about the losses.  Take videos or photos to document the damage if possible.
  • Find your policy and, if you must leave home, be sure to include insurance documents in your emergency kit.  Have your policy number handy when you make your claim.
  • Provide your insurance agent with your home inventory if you have one.
  • Leave a phone number where you can be reached if you are not at home.

3.  Make any temporary repairs necessary to protect your property from further damage.

  • Cover broken windows and damaged roofs if possible.
  • Keep receipts for all materials used.
  • Do not dispose of damaged personal property until an adjuster has seen it.

4.   Protect your automobile. 

·         If possible, move your vehicle(s) to an area not likely to be flooded.

·         If you leave your car in the garage, try to reinforce your garage door and cover your car with a tarp. Also remove heavy materials hanging on the walls.

·         In the event that your vehicle is damaged due to flooding, windblown debris or fallen trees and limbs, contact your agent as soon as possible to report damages.

 

The most serious losses are given priority, but your insurer will be sure to attend to your needs.

 

 

 

 

Phone numbers to file insurance claims:

 

 

Allstate - 800-255-7828

 

Travelers - 800-252-4633

 

GEICO 800-841-3000


Erie - 800-367-3743.

 

Nationwide - 800-421-3535

 

N.C. Farm Bureau - 1-888-303-2249 

 

Penn National - 800-766-2245

 

GMAC - 800-325-1088

 

Progressive - 800-PROGRESSIVE (77647377483)

 

State Auto - 800-766-1853

 

USAA - 800-531-USAA (8722)

 

Amica - 800-242-6422

 

Auto Owners - 888-252-4626

 

NCIUA- North Carolina Insurance underwriting Association (Beach Plan) 919-821-1299

 

 

 

 

 

Insurance Federation of North Carolina

3605 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 200, Raleigh, North Carolina 27612

P:  (919) 834-9773 ž  F:  (919) 834-9802

www.insurancefederationnc.com