Lessons Learned — the Hard Way
Leading vehicle insurer passes on tips to avoid a claim this hurricane season
MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio — May 10, 2006 — When you settle more than 70,000 claims from major hurricanes in just two years, you learn a thing or two about what consumers can do to protect their vehicles and boats and simplify the claims process. The claims experts at The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, a leading insurer of cars, boats and motorcycles, are using that experience to offer five tips to help consumers prepare for the 2006 hurricane season.
"Storms are stressful and when one is approaching is not the time to be putting together plans to evacuate or secure your vehicles and boats. Before the hurricane season gets here, take a minute to think about what you'll do — and won't do — when it's time," said Scott Snapp, catastrophe response director, Progressive. "For example, think about when and how you'll leave, what you'll take with you, and what you'll do to protect the vehicles you leave behind."
Snapp said: "With RVs, take the time before the storm to secure things like awnings — it's the wind that rips them off. Unsecured boats float away and get damaged. Get your boat out of the water, if you can, and move it to a safe place. If you have to leave your boat in the water, secure it in place with high-quality line. A good rule of thumb in storm season? 'If you can't take it with you, secure it.'"
With hurricane season right around the corner, here are five tips that are unchanging, regardless of the type of vehicle you own or the type of storm heading your way.
5 Tips for '06
- Check your coverages. In order for a storm related vehicle loss to be covered, you must have Comprehensive coverage. When you buy Comprehensive, you'll be asked to select a deductible amount, or the amount you'll pay first, before the insurance company's claims payment kicks in. Be certain your deductible is an amount you can afford.
- If you have to evacuate, take your important insurance papers with you in a waterproof bag or container; this may help to expedite any insurance claim you may have.
- If you have storm damage to a vehicle, report it right away. Most insurers have 24-hour claims reporting; know your company's, or your independent agent's, phone number.
- If you can, take your vehicles with you, including cars, motorcycles, RVs (they make great temporary shelter if you need it, but be sure you have fire alarms and carbon-monoxide detectors installed) and boats that can be trailered. If you can't take them with you, park them indoors, if possible. If not, park them on high ground as close as possible to a sturdy building.
- Take photos of everything — they just might help your insurance company find and return a vehicle that has floated — or flown — off.
The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, in business since 1937, ranks third in the nation for auto insurance and number one for motorcycle insurance based on premiums written and provides drivers with competitive rates and 24/7 in-person and online service. The products and services of the Progressive Direct Group of Insurance Companies are marketed directly to consumers by phone at 1-800-PROGRESSIVE and online at www.progressivedirect.com through the Progressive DirectSM brand. The products and services of the Drive Group of Progressive Insurance Companies are offered by more than 30,000 independent insurance agencies and online at www.driveinsurance.com through the Drive® Insurance from Progressive brand. The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, are publicly traded at NYSE:PGR. More information can be found at www.progressive.com.
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