Old Man Winter has officially arrived in the Rockies, but many of us are a bit rusty on how to handle winter weather conditions, so brushing up on insurance and safety tips can help us better survive and recover from a winter storm.
What drivers need to know: Be aware of how insurance covers you in an accident with another vehicle verses tree limbs falling on a car due to heavy snow, or for that matter if you slide into a tree. Do you know what to do if you’re involved in a car crash and law enforcement is on “accident alert”? http://www.rmiia.org/auto/traffic_safety/Winter_Driving.asp
What homeowners need to know: Homeowners policies will typically cover most damage from severe winter weather, such as house pipes freezing and bursting or water seepage into the house as the result of ice forming in gutters and causing water to back up under roof shingles. You would also be covered if the weight of snow or ice damages your house. http://www.rmiia.org/homeowners/Cold_Weather_Frozen_Pipes.asp
For more information on insurance & Colorado winter storms:
http://www.rmiia.org/Catastrophes_and_Statistics/Winter_Storms.asp
AAA helps pack your trunk for winter driving emergencies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5LkTkW3TDY#t=27
FEMA Guide: “How to Prepare for a Winter Storm”
https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
Hail, tornadoes, flooding, wildfires are unfortunately part of living in the Rocky Mountain Region, so making sure you're financially prepared is as essential as planning that summer vacation! It's time for an annual insurance check-up to understand what your insurance covers, what it doesn't, and to have the protection you need BEFORE Mother Nature strikes or your home is in the path of a wildfire.
What homeowners need to know: Homeowners insurance covers damage from hail, fire and wind. Property damage resulting from rising water is covered by a separate flood insurance policy. How to file a property claim
What drivers need to know: Hail, wind, fire or flood damage to vehicles is covered if you carry comprehensive insurance on your auto policy. How to file an auto claim
Check out these links for more insurance & fraud prevention tips:
Hail Information & statistics http://www.rmiia.org/catastrophes_and_statistics/Hail.asp
Follow #NoRoofScams to learn more about how consumers can avoid being the victims of unethical roofing contractors and find reputable roofing contractors https://www.bbb.org/denver/hail
Colorado/New Mexico Wildfire & Insurance Guides http://www.rmiia.org/catastrophes_and_statistics/Wildfire_and_insurance.asp
National Flood Insurance Program https://www.floodsmart.gov/
Wildfire Information & Guides
Wildfire Advice - Information on how to file a claim
Toll Free Numbers - For Policyholders
Getting Back Home - Tips for Homeowners Claims Process |
Boulder County Fires Insurance & Evacuation Advice - RMIA News Release
Insurance Evacuation & Claims Advice: If you are under a mandatory evacuation order here’s what you need to know to about putting safety first, maintaining COVID-19 health precautions, and what to expect from your insurance coverage and claims filing process.
- COVID-19 challenges may impact evacuation shelters, lodging availability and claims handling. First and foremost, if you are ordered to evacuate, you need to leave your residence immediately. Listen to orders from local authorities.
- Contact your insurance agent or company immediately to let them know where you are staying and help you with coverage or claims questions. They can also help assist you with lodging options. Insurance company claim contact information: https://www.iii.org/article/insurance-company-claims-filing-telephone-numbers
Don't miss out on RMIA Virtual Events in 2023. Click on the links below for more information:
- Stay Tuned for More RMIA Events
Here's what you need to know:
Homeowners Insurance Basics
Auto Insurance Basics
What to do after a Catastrophe
Catastrophe Facts & Statistics
Creating a Home Inventory
Company Claim Contacts |