ORLANDO, Fla. — AAA is offering insurance tips to Florida residents affected by Hurricanes Helen and Milton.
First, it’s important to know that insureds do not have to pay multiple hurricane deductibles. AAA said claims related to hurricane wind damage only require one annual deductible payment. This means policyholders who suffered damage from Hurricane Helen and then also from Milton won’t have to pay more than once.
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This rule does not apply to flood damage claims. AAA said most businesses require different deductibles for each of these events.
Policyholders are strongly encouraged to take photos of their belongings to share with their insurance company.
“Anyone affected by Helen should take photos and save receipts for related expenses,” said Jennifer Pintacuda, president of Florida-based AAA Insurance.
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AAA also provided the following general insurance advice: Their recommendations are:
Review your home insurance policy to make sure you’re properly covered for any losses. Homeowner’s insurance covers wind damage, but not flooding. If you don’t have flood insurance, there is usually a 30-day waiting period before your new policy takes effect. Review your auto insurance policy to make sure you get “comprehensive” coverage. This helps with vehicle damage such as flooding or falling trees. Store important documents in a portable waterproof container. Documents may include insurance policy information, birth certificates, social security cards, etc. We will take inventory. Walk around your home with a video camera or smartphone and record your belongings. Keep records of bulk purchases, including item price, date of purchase, model and serial number.
If your car has been damaged by water, the first step is to assess the damage. Think about how high the water gets near your car.
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AAA says if water gets below the door, damage to your vehicle is likely to be minor. If the water level passes below the bottom of your car door, you will be asked to:
Do not attempt to restart the vehicle. Water may enter the engine and cause irreversible damage. Avoid opening the door until the water level reaches the bottom of the door frame. Use a wet vacuum to remove any water that has gotten inside.
Electric vehicle owners should also avoid attempting to restart the vehicle, as this may pose an electric shock or fire hazard.
Click here for more information from AAA.
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