SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 9, 2024—The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) is reminding homeowners, renters, businesses, and vehicle owners impacted by severe weather related to the West Coast Atmospheric River of what’s covered under standard insurance policies and how the insurance claim filing process works.

"The damages and devastation brought to millions of West Coast residents from severe rain and wind this week highlight the importance of being financially protected from catastrophic losses," said Sean Kevelighan, CEO, Triple-I. "As financial first-responders, the insurance industry is actively working to help its customers in need of recovery."

According to Triple-I, there are four keys to economic recovery after severe weather events.

First, it is important to start the claims process as soon as possible. Triple-I advises individuals to be prepared to provide a description of the damage to their property and a copy of their home inventory, if available. Insurance professionals will then report the loss immediately to the insurer or a qualified adjuster.

Second, it is crucial to understand what is covered by insurance policies. Property damage caused by windstorms, hail, and lightning is covered under standard homeowners, renters, and business insurance policies. However, property damage resulting from floods or mudflows requires a separate flood insurance policy, which can be obtained through FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. Damage to businesses caused by windstorms, hail, and lightning is typically covered under a Business Owners Policy (BOP) or a Commercial Multiple Peril (CMP) policy.

Third, individuals should review their Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage. ALE, also known as Loss of Use, pays for the additional costs of living away from home if it becomes uninhabitable due to a mandatory evacuation or damage from an insured catastrophe. While ALE is a standard coverage in homeowners and renters insurance policies, it may not be incorporated into FEMA NFIP policies. However, it may be included in some private flood policies.

Lastly, Triple-I advises individuals to ensure they have comprehensive coverage for their vehicles. Vehicles damaged by floodwaters or debris, such as falling trees, are covered under the optional comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy. Approximately 80 percent of U.S. drivers purchase comprehensive coverage when buying an auto policy.

In light of the recent severe weather events on the West Coast, Triple-I's reminders provide valuable information on the insurance claim filing process for those affected. By understanding what is covered under their insurance policies and following the proper procedures, consumers can take steps towards recovering from the damages caused by the Atmospheric River.

"Being financially protected from catastrophic losses is of utmost importance," emphasized Sean Kevelighan, CEO of Triple-I. "The insurance industry is actively working to help its customers in need of recovery."

Triple-I's guidance serves as a valuable resource for homeowners, renters, businesses, and vehicle owners impacted by the severe weather conditions. It highlights the importance of taking immediate action, understanding insurance coverage, reviewing additional living expenses, and ensuring comprehensive coverage for vehicles. By following these steps, individuals can navigate the insurance claim filing process and work towards economic recovery after the devastating atmospheric river damages.