Phoenix, Ariz. Oct. 6, 2010. Yesterday, thunderstorms brought strong winds, heavy rain and hail to many areas of the state. For some parts of Arizona, damaging weather will continue today. Consequently, as Arizonans assess storm damage, insurance claim representatives are busy fielding calls from insured’s reporting damage.

“Whether or not damage is covered is dependent upon the type of insurance coverage that was purchased,” said Brad Oltmans, vice president of insurance for AAA Arizona. “Motorists are generally covered by having “comprehensive” coverage on their policy. Homeowners are covered under the “damage to structure” provision in their policy.” 

AAA Insurance would like to offer the following perspective on storm damage:

• A homeowner’s policy will typically cover damage caused by lightening or hail.
  
  
• Damage caused by falling objects such as downed trees or limbs will likely be covered under the comprehensive provision of the auto policy and under building coverage on a homeowners policy.
  
  
• Contrary to what many homeowners believe, flooding is not covered under a homeowner’s insurance policy. Coverage for flood damage to a home requires property owners to carry a separate “flood” policy.
  
  
• Hail and flood damage can be two of the most frequent storm related claims for autos. For damage to vehicles, motorists must have “comprehensive” coverage indicated on their policy.
  
  
• Consumers who only carry “liability” coverage and did not purchase physical damage to their vehicle will not be afforded coverage for storm related losses.

Arizonans who experienced storm damage should contact their insurance agent as soon as possible to report damage and initiate the claims process. AAA insured’s can call (800) 207-3618 to report a new claim or (800) 579-3942 to follow up on an existing claim.

NOTE: AAA Insurance experts are available for interviews. To arrange, contact public affairs staff.