Volume 1 Number 33
August 16, 2004










TEXT VERSION

SPECIAL HURRICANE EDITION


As federal, state and local officials begin to get a handle on the extent of damages from Hurricane Charley, we have deployed our Mobile Response Unit to assist Floridians in filing insurance claims and quickly resolving insurance problems.
 
Although our first priority is to continue search and rescue efforts, we will quickly focus on ensuring a prompt response from insurance companies and adjusters so that Floridians can begin the rebuilding process.
 
Our storm hotline continues to be available at 1-800-22-STORM (1-800-227-8676).  Below are claims reporting contact telephone numbers for the state’s 20 largest insurance companies. 
 
In addition, if you believe you may be the victim of a scam or if you have been contacted by an unlicensed adjuster, click on the link below to report it to an insurance fraud investigator.
 
 
 

Our thoughts and prayers are with the storm victims and the dedicated professionals and volunteers helping in this time of need. 

 

Pensacola from the bay is our skyline for August.                                     

 

Links for assistance during the current emergency

Consumer Help Line (for storm-related insurance questions):
1-800-22-STORM (1-800-227-8676

GALLAGHER DEPLOYS MOBILE RESPONSE UNIT TO HELP FLORIDIANS GET INSURANCE CLAIMS PROCESS UNDER WAY

As federal, state and local officials begin to get a handle on the extent of damages from Hurricane Charley, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher has deployed the Department of Financial Services’ Mobile Response Unit to southwest Florida to assist Floridians in filing insurance claims and quickly resolving insurance problems.

 “Thousands of Floridians have suffered tremendous losses, and now we are beginning to start on the road to recovery,” said Gallagher, who oversees the Department of Financial Services.  “Volunteers from across the state are helping out with immediate needs.   Local and national support organizations, including the Red Cross and FEMA, are coming together to ensure food, water and shelter are available.  It’s now our job to make sure insurance claims are paid quickly and that no one takes advantage of storm victims.”  CONTINUED
 
 

GALLAGHER ACTIVATES NEW ONLINE SYSTEM TO EXPEDITE PAYMENT OF CLAIMS FOLLOWING CHARLEY

As local, state and federal officials and volunteer organizations prepare to assist residents affected by Hurricane Charley, the Department of Financial Services is gearing up to quickly help thousands of Floridians who will need assistance in filing insurance claims, Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher said today.

According to Gallagher, the department will activate its new “E-Storm” system as it receives questions and complaints from consumers.  “E-Storm” will automatically link up with participating insurance companies to ensure consumers receive immediate assistance.

“Charley will be devastating to thousands of Florida families.  We are here to help them pick up the pieces and start the rebuilding process,” said Gallagher, who oversees the Department of Financial Services.  “With E-Storm, we’ll be able to serve consumers faster and get companies to quickly resolve questions and complaints.”  CONTINUED


 


National Weather Service Tropical Prediction Center

 

GALLAGHER REMINDS FLORIDIANS TO STAY
READY FOR POSSIBLE HURRICANE STRIKES AS NEW STORMS FORM

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher wants Florida residents to have their hurricane supplies and escape plans in order before the next storm threatens.

“Preparedness is the best defense - both for a storm and the aftermath that could lure unlicensed adjusters and scam artists,” said Gallagher, who also oversees the Department of Financial Services. “It is unfortunate, but there are individuals who will try to take advantage of other people’s misfortune. Residents should be wary of certain offers for assistance, especially if cash is demanded.”  CONTINUED