The National Weather Service declared the tornado an EF-3 after it tore through areas of Appleton, Neenah and Menasha, causing extensive damage, including downed trees and power lines, debris in streets and damage to homes and vehicles. The storm system also produced strong winds and hail across parts of Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana.

To support customers in the impacted area, American Family’s catastrophe team members are working alongside local claims employees to contact customers, expedite the claims process and coordinate inspections.

"Our thoughts are with everyone impacted and with the communities working through recovery," said Tim Constien, chief claims officer for American Family Insurance. “American Family takes pride in how we show up for customers in their time of need, and our Claims team is on the ground to help. Within hours of the storm hitting, our teams began calling nearby customers to check on their well-being and understand their immediate needs. I'm grateful to our claims professionals who are keeping the promise we make to customers by helping families and communities when they need it most.”

As of Wednesday morning, American Family has received over 1,000 storm-related claims in Wisconsin, with wind and tornado damage reported as the primary causes of loss.

Mobile support sites
American Family has deployed catastrophe response vehicles to the Fox Valley area to help customers with questions and support field staff at the following locations:

Richard Schultz Agency
905 Plank Road
Menasha, WI

Home Depot
2201 S Kensington Dr
Appleton, WI

How to file a claim
When it is safe to do so, customers are encouraged to report damage as soon as possible. They can start the claims process by contacting their American Family agency owner. Claims can also be reported 24/7:

• MyAmFam app or MyAccount on amfam.com
  Customers can file property or auto claims in the app from anywhere at any time. The claims will be routed directly to the appropriate area for efficient claim handling. Customers will also be able to track their claim’s status in the app and see who is handling their claim, details of the claim and other important information.
• Text the word STORM to 26326 (AMFAM)
  Customers will receive a link to file their claim quickly and easily from their smartphones. Message and data rates may apply.
• Call the Claims Customer Care Center at 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326)
  Representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For severe weather safety and preparedness tips, visit this page on the American Family Insurance Newsroom, or contact your agency owner.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 226 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

American Family Insurance is mobilizing additional claims support for customers in Wisconsin following severe weather that moved through the state April 13-14.

Multiple rounds of severe weather Monday and Tuesday brought tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail and heavy rain, leaving damage across the area. In Southern Wisconsin, over two-inch hail was reported in parts of the Dane County area. 

To support customers, our field catastrophe adjusters are assisting local claims employees to contact customers, expedite claims handling and help organize inspections. Mobile claims sites are also being assembled at two locations in Madison to support affected customers.

“Our customers are at the center of everything we do. When severe weather hits, the most important thing is providing clear answers and fast support for those affected,” said Tim Constien, chief claims officer for American Family Insurance. “From deploying mobile claims units to coordinating inspections, our teams are working to make the claims process as smooth as possible. American Family takes pride in how we show up for customers in their time of need, and I’m grateful for our adjusters and claims professionals working hard to help families and communities recover after the unexpected.”

As of Friday morning, American Family Insurance has received 5,700 claims related to the storms throughout the state of Wisconsin.

Mobile claims sites 
American Family will provide in-person support at multiple drive-in sites in Madison, with professionals available to help customers starting Thursday, April 16 at 10 a.m., at the following locations (by appointment only):

Gerber Auto Body 
200 W. Beltline Rd 
Madison, WI, 53717 

Zimbrick Auto Body 
5421 Wayne Terrace Suite 100 
Madison, WI, 53718 

These locations will be used for auto drive-in inspections so customers can have damaged vehicles inspected and receive payments for covered damages. Drive-in inspections are by appointment only and cannot accommodate walk-ins. Customers should contact the Customer Care Center (1-800-692-6326) to schedule an appointment. 

Report claims as soon as possible 
Customers are encouraged to contact their American Family agency owner as soon as possible to start a claim. Claims can also be reported 24/7 in the following ways: 

• MyAmFam app or MyAccount on amfam.com 
  Customers can file property or auto claims in the app from anywhere at any time. The claims will be routed directly to the appropriate area for efficient claim handling. Customers will also be able to track their claim’s status in the app and see who is handling their claim, details of the claim and other important information.
• Text the word STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) 
  Customers will be sent a link to file their claim quickly and easily from their smartphones. Message and data rates may apply.
• Call the Claims Customer Care Center at 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326) 
  Trained representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help customers. 

For more information on how to prepare for severe weather, visit this page on the Newsroom or reach out to your agency owner. 

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America Insurance. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

Here are tips to help you get storm-ready:

Be weather aware
Stay informed with real-time severe weather forecasts in your area. Sign up for emergency alerts from the National Weather Service. Monitor local forecasts and warnings so you have time to prepare and move to safety. Consider purchasing a weather radio to stay up to date on alerts without needing Wi-Fi or a power outlet.

Storm safety plans
Review with your family what to do during a severe storm. Identify the safest place to shelter in your home for different storm scenarios. Make a communication plan for times when family members are apart. Check emergency supplies so you can shelter safely if needed.

Evaluate your home
Do a seasonal walk-around to spot vulnerabilities before a storm arrives.

• Check for missing shingles and look for siding that is missing.
• Trim tree branches that could fall during a storm.
• Secure detached structures (sheds, gazebos) and bring in or secure patio furniture and other outdoor items.
• Check gutters and downspouts, and clear gutters in spring and fall to help move runoff away from your home and spot issues.
• Test your sump pump, clear debris and confirm any backup system is working.
• If you’ve had leaks in the past, consider addressing them now before heavier spring rains cause additional damage.

Review your insurance policy coverages
Severe weather is unpredictable, and having the right insurance in place can help reduce stress before, during and after a storm. If it’s been a while since you reviewed your policy, contact your insurance agency owner to confirm your coverage and ask whether endorsements are available to strengthen protection.

Create a home inventory
A home inventory can help support an insurance claim if your home or belongings are damaged. List major items, especially valuables, with descriptions, photos and estimated values. The more detail, the better. To take things a step further, consider recording a video walk-through of your home.

Know how to file a claim
The aftermath of a severe storm can be stressful. Filing a claim quickly can help speed up the process. Contact your agency owner as soon as possible to get started. American Family customers can report a claim:

• Through the MyAmFam app or via MyAccount at amfam.com.
• By texting STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) to receive a link to file a claim from a smartphone (message and data rates may apply).
• By calling 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326), where trained representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To learn more, review coverage options and confirm you have the right protection in place, contact an American Family Insurance agency owner in your area today. They can walk through your options, helping ensure your policy is built to protect what matters most.

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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

Several intense storms moved across northern Illinois, causing significant damage in and around Kankakee. The storms damaged roofs and windows, impacted vehicles, and left debris scattered as cleanup efforts continue. The storms also produced very large hail, with reports of hail up to 6 inches in diameter, according to the National Weather Service. The National Weather Service also reported at least one EF-3 tornado in Kankakee County, with estimated winds up to 150 mph, resulting in extensive damage and injuries. 

To support customers impacted by storm damage, American Family field catastrophe adjusters are supporting local claims employees to contact customers, expedite claims handling and help organize inspections.

Mobile claims site
To help affected customers, American Family will have a mobile claims site truck with professionals available to help customers however possible beginning Thursday afternoon, March 12, located at:

Menards
1260 Christine Dr
Bradley, IL, 60915 

The mobile claims site will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

This location will also be utilized for an auto drive-in, where customers can have their damaged vehicles inspected and receive payments for damages. Drive-in inspections are by appointment only and cannot accommodate walk-in customers.

Report claims as soon as possible
Customers who experienced storm damage are encouraged to contact their American Family agent as soon as possible to start a claim. Claims can also be reported digitally 24/7 in several ways: 

• Digitally report the claim via the MyAmFam app or in their MyAccount on amfam.com Customers can file property or auto claims in the app from anywhere at any time. The claims will be routed directly to the appropriate area for efficient claim handling. Customers will also be able to track their claim’s status in the app and see who is handling their claim, details of the claim and other important information.
• Text the word STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) Customers can text the word STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) to be sent a link to file their claim quickly and easily from their smartphones. Message and data rates may apply.
• Call the Claims Customer Care Center They can also call the Claims Customer Care Center at 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326). Trained representatives are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help customers.  

### 

About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, a mutual holding company based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America Insurance. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide. 

American Family Insurance and body shop Gerber Collision & Glass teamed up to provide the refurbished vehicle during a presentation at the March 1 Milwaukee Brewers^TM spring training game at American Family Fields of Phoenix^TM.

American Family and Gerber Collison & Glass worked together with a nonprofit organization to identify a deserving recipient for this gift. Recipients meet certain requirements such as need, valid driver’s license and ability to insure and maintain the vehicle. 

For this gift, the nonprofit partner was St. Joseph The Worker of Phoenix. St. Joseph the Worker is focused on helping people facing homelessness, poverty and other barriers to become self-sufficient through meaningful, stable employment. Their work centers on employment as the foundation for long-term stability and community prosperity. Their goal is to connect people with jobs and stable housing, building essential life skills and supporting them holistically so they can move from survival to independence.

NABC Recycled Rides latest recipient 
St. Joseph the Worker staff have worked with recipient Sarah Phillips, a devoted single mother taking many steps to improve her and her daughter’s life. She moved from Chicago to Glendale last year and has been working hard to establish roots in the community. Sarah has never owned a car and transportation is an ongoing challenge for her, whether getting to work, appointments and doing everyday errands. Having a reliable vehicle will be life-changing for Sarah and her daughter, providing independence and stability. St. Joseph the Worker has been assisting Sarah and staff have witnessed her determination to succeed firsthand. They will continue to provide Sarah with support on her journey to self-sufficiency. 

Sarah along with her mother Michelle and her daughter, were special guests at the recent Milwaukee Brewers vs. Kansas City Royals spring training game at American Family Fields of Phoenix.

“After more than a decade of participating in the Recycled Rides program, we continue to see the incredible positive impact reliable transportation has on someone’s life,” said Tim Constien, American Family Insurance chief claims officer. “With this vehicle, Sarah will be equipped to succeed at building a secure, thriving future for her family and move her along the path to self-sufficiency by overcoming daily barriers. We know this will be a life-changing step toward a safe and secure future and we’re honored to assist Sarah on her journey.” 

Representatives from the participating organizations presented Sarah with the keys to a completely refurbished 2022 Honda Odyssey. 

In addition to Sarah, her mother and daughter, attending the event from American Family Insurance was Constien and Danny Henderson, vice president of claims. From Gerber Collision & Glass, Gary Bunce, senior vice president of sales, and Dennis DeMaio, national account manager. Also joining Sarah and her family was Brittany Bunce with St. Joseph the Worker. 

Photo caption from group photo, left to right:  Help from one of the Brewers Famous Racing Sausages, Sarah and family, Brittany Bunce, Tim Constien, Danny Henderson, Gary Bunce, Dennis DeMaio

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About American Family Insurance 
American Family Insurance, a mutual holding company based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current ‘a+’ credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America Insurance. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.

“It’s great for modern vehicles to have added collision mitigation systems that do assist them, when possible,” said Rich Steffen, president of personal lines at American Family Insurance. “However, we don’t want drivers to rely on them or become overconfident with those added features as they can’t always protect you against fast moving or sudden obstacles, like a deer or other animal.”

Wisconsin had the most deer-related claims processed for American Family Insurance in 2023 with 10,543 paid claims. In Wisconsin, 14 people were killed, 12 of which were motorcyclists, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. States rounding out the top five include Washington, Utah, South Dakota and Oregon. 

If you do encounter a deer or larger animal on the road, follow these tips to stay safe:

• Buckle up and stay alert. Always wear your seatbelt because most people injured in deer-vehicle collisions were not buckled up. Avoid distractions while driving, including your phone. Pay close attention to the road and surrounding areas at dawn and dusk, when visibility is low, and deer are more active.
• Expect more than one. If you see a deer cross the road, slow down and watch for others, as they often travel in groups.
• Don’t swerve if you see a deer. If you see a deer on the road, brake and firmly blow your horn – only flashing your headlights may not be effective. Do not swerve if you are unable to stop. Swerving can lead to injury if you hit a tree or another vehicle.

What to do if you hit a deer:

• Stay off the road and away from the animal. Move your car off the road, if possible, and turn on your hazard lights. Stay away from the animal because wounded animal can become frightened and may act aggressively.

• Report the accident. You may be legally required to report an accident to local authorities. State law may require an accident report if there is significant damage. This documentation will also be helpful when filing a claim with your insurance company.
• Take photos. Take photos of your car and the accident scene if it is safe to do so. Stay off the road and away from the animal.
• Contact your insurance company to report your claim. Collision with an animal is covered under the comprehensive section of your auto insurance policy. Since comprehensive coverage is optional, be sure to check your auto insurance policy for specific coverages.

Although most animal-vehicle collisions occur with deer, damage can also be caused by other animals. Rodents can cause significant damage by chewing on wires or creating nests in a car when seeking a source of heat during the colder months. In the past year, rodents, dogs, rabbits and other miscellaneous animals caused an average of over $2,000 in vehicle damage for American Family customers.

American Family Insurance receives hundreds of claims for domestic, farm and other wild animal automobile and motorcycle collisions every month. These tips can be applied to collisions with other types of animals, such as cows or moose, to keep you safe on the roads this season.

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About the American Family Insurance Group 
American Family Insurance Group, a mutual holding company based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance Group is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance group, ranking No. 243 on the Fortune 500 list. The Group has a current ‘A+’ credit rating through AM Best and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for 75 years. The group sells American Family-brand products, primarily through exclusive agency owners in 19 states. The American Family Insurance Group also includes CONNECT, powered by American Family Insurance, The General, Homesite and Main Street America Insurance  have approximately 12,000 employees nationwide.

Long before the storm hit, our teams were ready. 

“When we know a destructive storm is approaching customers, we’re able to plan ahead and get some of our experts safely in place ahead of time,” said Wendy Scheper, associate vice president of property for American Family Insurance claims. “Within hours of the initial landfall, our crews called to check on potentially impacted customers and employees to see what they needed and were in route to help.” 

Beyond our continued commitment to helping customers impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene, the American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation is donating $20,000 to aid local disaster relief efforts in Florida. 

The money will be distributed to the Community Foundation of Sarasota, Feeding Tampa Bay and the Salvation Army, Florida Headquarters. American Family Insurance employees and agency owners also can donate toward hurricane relief efforts through the Dreams Foundation’s social impact programming. 

# # # 

About the American Family Insurance Group 
American Family Insurance Group, a mutual holding company based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance Group is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance group, ranking No. 243 on the Fortune 500 list. The Group has a current ‘A+’ credit rating through AM Best and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for 75 years. The group sells American Family-brand products, primarily through exclusive agency owners in 19 states. The American Family Insurance Group also includes CONNECT, powered by American Family Insurance, The General, Homesite and Main Street America Insurance have approximately 12,000 employees nationwide. 

A catastrophe team from American Family Insurance is joining local claim office employees as they help customers following heavy rain and wind from Hurricane Helene. The storm damaged homes and businesses in Georgia and other southern states. More than 12,000 claims have already been generated as a result of this weather event across our companies in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia and Virginia.

Catastrophe field adjusters are assisting local claim employees as they contact customers and set up appointments to inspect their property.

American Family’s efforts are focused on helping customers in Fulton County, where they can visit a mobile claims site at the address below between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. local time:

Home Depot 2450
2450 Cumberland Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30339

All customers who have claims from storm damage should immediately contact the company's care center or their agent to start their claim. American Family Insurance customers can do that in a number of ways:

• Digitally report the claim via the MyAmFam app or in their MyAccount on amfam.com.
  • Customers can file property or auto claims in the app from anywhere at any time. The claims will be routed directly to the appropriate area for efficient claim handling.
  • Customers will also be able to track their claim’s status in the app and see who is handling their claim, details of the claim and other important information.
• Customers can text the word STORM to 26326 (AMFAM) to be sent a link to file their claim quickly and easily from their smartphones. Message and data rates may apply.
• Call the Claims Customer Care Center
  • They can also call our Claims Customer Care Center at 1-800-MYAMFAM (1-800-692-6326). We have trained representatives available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help our customers.
     

In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation, American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation is donating $20,000 to aid local disaster relief efforts in Georgia, where we’re committed to supporting the long-term recovery through our donations and claims resolution.

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About the American Family Insurance Group 
American Family Insurance Group, a mutual holding company based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance Group is the nation’s 12th-largest property/casualty insurance group, ranking No. 243 on the Fortune 500 list. The Group has a current ‘A+’ credit rating through AM Best and has distinction as a “Standing the Test of Time” company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of ‘A’ or better for 75 years. The group sells American Family-brand products, primarily through exclusive agency owners in 19 states. The American Family Insurance Group also includes CONNECT, powered by American Family Insurance, The General, Homesite and Main Street America Insurance and has approximately 12,000 employees nationwide.