Institute Reminds Consumers to File Hail Claims

For some policy-holders, that could mean October 14 is the last day to file claims resulting from the hail storm, which was the most destructive event in Indiana this year. Some insurers allow up to one year to file claims, so consumers should check with their agents regarding the details of their policy.

"The insurance industry is here to help out in these situations," Institute President Steve Williams said. "It’s always unfortunate when policy-holders let deadlines pass without filing a claim."

Many insurance companies have a six-month statute of limitations for storm-related claims.

"Our claims force is working diligently and our agents are assisting with the claims reporting process so that are we able to continue to provide exceptional customer service and to respond to customers’ claims as soon as possible," said Eric Smith, Regional Vice President for Nationwide Insurance and an Institute Board Member.

The Good Friday hail storm, which brought damage to six states from Kansas to Indiana, has been the costliest outbreak of severe weather in the country this year. More than 222,000 insurance claims have been filed in the six states relating to the storm, and more than $800 million has been – or will be – paid out. That accounts for nearly 60 percent of total property damage costs in the first quarter of 2006.

The total number of Indiana claims related to this incident is not available at this time.

The Insurance Institute of Indiana is a non-profit trade association representing insurance companies in the state of Indiana. Its ultimate purpose is to create and maintain a business, legislative and public awareness climate in Indiana that promotes the continued success of the insurance segment in the free enterprise system.

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