With the possibility that severe weather associated with Hurricane Katrina will cause heavy rains and potential flooding, Ohio Department of Insurance Director Ann Womer Benjamin is urging Ohioans to plan for emergency situations and review their insurance policies.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provides coverage to communities which have enforced flood plain management ordinances that are designed to reduce future flood losses. In Ohio, more than 19,000 communities participate in the program. After a community qualifies for the NFIP, a flood insurance policy may be purchased from a licensed property and casualty agent. Generally, a 30-day waiting period precedes a new policy’s effective date.
The Ohio Emergency Management Association encourages Ohioans to devise an escape and shelter plan, organize a disaster kit that includes a battery operated radio, flashlight(s), nonperishable foods, bottled water, first aid kit, prescriptions, and important family documents, financial documents and phone numbers.
Anyone with questions about severe weather preparedness and insurance claims should contact the Department’s Consumer Services Division at 1-800-686-1526.
The Ohio Department of Insurance regulates and licenses approximately 1,700 insurance companies, nearly 195,000 agents, and more than 15,000 insurance agencies, and monitors the financial solvency of the insurance industry in Ohio.
Banks Still Face Legal Claims After $25 Billion Settlement
MF Global Judge to Examine Insurance Payments for Former Executives
Daredevil CEOs May Put Companies at Risk
California Independent Contractor Law May Be Liability for Agents, Brokers
North Carolina Continues Auto Regulation Debate As Rates Stay Same for 2012
Long-time California Lobbyist Looks to 2012 Legislation Affecting Insurance
Mine Safety Chief Seeks to End Complacency Over Safety
Virginia Court Grants Rehearing of Global Warming Claims Case
