02
April
2015
|
17:00 PM
America/Chicago

Wichita wind and hail storm at a glance: American Family Insurance

Dateline: Madison, Wis., April 3, 2015

Event: Strong winds and hail in Wichita area

Media contact: Ken Muth, American Family Insurance Media Relations, (608) 332-6538 (cell) or kmuth@amfam.com

Area affected: Northern part of Wichita, communities north of Wichita

Type of damage we're seeing: Primarily damage to homes, such as wind-blown shingles and roof, window, siding and fence damage caused by snapped tree branches. Hail damage to cars.

Telephone number for customers to call to report a claim, schedule a claims inspection: 24-hour Customer Care Center – 1-800-MY-AMFAM (692-6326)

Number/type of claims we have so far: More than 200 homeowners insurance claims and 150 auto insurance claims.

Number/type of claims we expect to receive: It is too early to project total claims we may receive from the storm. We will have a better idea in the coming days as more customers report their claims.

American Family is saying:

  • American Family Insurance is already responding to Wichita. We're taking claim reports from customers, and members of our catastrophe team will soon be traveling to Wichita to join local adjusters in our response.
  • If you have storm damage, the most important step is to report your claim so we can begin to help you. American Family customers can report damage to our 24/7 claims center at 1-800-692-6326.
  • If you have storm damage from tree limbs breaking through your roof or windows, take steps to prevent additional damage. Cover the holes with tarps or plywood and keep your receipts from that work so you can be reimbursed by your insurance company.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

How do I report my insurance claim?

To report a claim, please contact our 24-hour Claim Customer Care Center at 1-800-MY-AMFAM (692-6326) — or your American Family agent.

What damages to my property might be covered by my insurance?

Your homeowners insurance policy covers wind and hail damage to your home and personal property. The "comprehensive" section of your auto insurance policy provides coverage for wind and hail damage to your vehicle.

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.

Who do I call to make repairs?

You are free to select any contractor or repair shop you wish. It is usually best to select one that has operated in the area for several years, is insured and bonded, and will give you a written guarantee for the work performed.

About American Family Insurance
Madison, Wis.– based American Family Insurance is the nation's third-largest mutual property/casualty insurance company and ranks 373rd on the Fortune 500 list. The company sells American Family-brand products, including auto, homeowners, life, business and farm/ranch insurance, through its exclusive agents in 19 states. American Family affiliates (The General, Homesite and AssureStart) also provide options for consumers who want to manage their insurance matters directly over the Internet or by phone. Web: www.amfam.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/amfam; Twitter: www.twitter.com/amfam. Google+ plus.google.com/+amfam/