Madison,
06
August
2019
|
14:44 PM
America/Chicago

Adjusters and agents respond to hail near Twin Cities in Minnesota

Summary

American Family has activated its catastrophe team to assist customers affected by a hail storm that struck the Minneapolis-St. Paul area Monday afternoon.

American Family has activated its catastrophe team to assist customers with damage from a large hail storm that struck parts of the Minneapolis-St. Paul area Monday afternoon. Customers have already filed 1,700 claims from the storm, with up to 7,500 anticipated.

“Our adjusters and agents are already talking with customers to schedule appointments and begin the recovery process,” said Don Johnson, claims associate vice president. “We expect to establish multiple drive-in sites for vehicle inspections, while dozens of adjusters are on their way to help owners of damaged homes and businesses.”

American Family’s claims response is focused on Anoka, Carver, Hennipen. Washington and Wright counties.

Auto drive-ins for the inspection of damaged cars are being established at the Coon Rapids and Brooklyn Park Home Depots and other locations in the storm path. Please note, customers must have an appointment to have their vehicle inspected at one of these sites.

American Family projects its customers could file up to 4,000 auto, 3,000 homeowners and 500 commercial claims.

“Our catastrophe team will be here for as long as it takes to help our customers, and most likely the rest of the summer,” Johnson said.

Report claims immediately
Customers with damage should report their claims as soon as possible – by phone at 800-MYAMFAM (692-6326), online at amfam.com/claims or through their insurance agent.

Customers can also file their auto and property claims by texting the word “STORM” to 26326 (AMFAM). Please note that message and data rates may apply. Using this channel may reduce customer wait time and decrease time reporting the claim but should not be used if immediate response is needed.


QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

Can I start to make repairs to prevent further damage?

You should protect your property immediately against further damage and theft. Use plywood, tarps or other materials to cover broken windows and damaged rooftops. Keep the receipts of any materials/services that you purchase to make these repairs so your adjuster can review them and reimburse you for expenses covered by your policy.

How will the inspection process work?

American Family is establishing multiple drive-in sites to inspect hail-damaged vehicles. As the drive-in sites are established, customers can schedule their appointment when they report their claims. It is important to remember that inspections are done on an appointment basis only. Because schedules are typically full, we are unable to accommodate those who don’t have appointments. If your vehicle has a broken-out windshield, please share that when you report your claim. An adjuster will visit your location to inspect the vehicle.

If your home or business has sustained damage, an adjuster will contact you at one of the phone numbers you provided when you report your claim. The two of you will schedule an inspection of your home, after which the adjuster will develop an estimate and issue payment for repairs covered by your policy.

Who do I call to make repairs?

You are free to select any contractor (home) or repair shop (auto) you wish. It is usually best to select one who has operated in the area for several years, is insured and bonded and gives you a written guarantee for the work performed.

                                                                                                    ###

About American Family Insurance
Madison, Wisconsin-based American Family Insurance group is the nation's 13th-largest property/casualty insurance group and ranks No. 306 on the Fortune 500 list. The company sells American Family-brand products, including auto, homeowners, life, business and farm/ranch insurance, primarily through its exclusive agents in 19 states. American Family affiliates (The General and Homesite) also provide options for consumers who want to manage their insurance matters directly over the internet or by phone. Affiliate Main Street America sells insurance products through independent agents. Web www.amfam.com; Facebook www.facebook.com/amfam; Twitter www.twitter.com/amfam.