Insurance Group Praises Industry for Timely Response to Kan. Tornado

Gov. Marc Racicot, president of the American Insurance Association (AIA), praised the insurance industry for its quick response in assessing the damage and paying policyholder claims in the aftermath of the devastating tornado that leveled the town of Greensburg, Kan., on May 4.

According to the state Department of Insurance, adjusters have already distributed money and relief to an estimated 80 percent of those with claims. State officials have also called the response “exemplary.”

“The tornado that ravaged the Greensburg community was devastating to its residents and nothing can make up for the loss these folks have suffered,” stated Racicot. “Having a prompt response from insurers is a helpful part of the recovery process and I’m pleased that relief is quickly reaching the hands of those who have encountered losses. Nobody can ever anticipate the spectrum of losses that may flow from a major tornado or catastrophe, but our industry remains committed to helping those in need with assistance and providing relief as quickly as feasibly possible.”

Continental Western Insurance Company, a member company of the W.R. Berkley Corp., insures the city of Greensburg as well as a number of contractors in the region. They were one of the first companies to arrive on the scene following the tornado and have been instrumental in providing assistance to their policy-holders. Moreover, its adjusters remain in Greensburg and continue to assist customers in need of assistance.

“We needed to do our part as quickly as possible recognizing the city of Greensburg would be called upon immediately to provide care and assistance to the residents of the town,” stated Brad Kuster, president of Continental Western. “Our company was able to promptly respond to our customers so they in return could help their citizens or customers rebuild and get the community back on its feet.”

Racicot also commended the state insurance commissioner, Sandy Praeger, and the Kansas Department of Insurance for their efforts in assisting the residents of Greensburg with the claims process.

“The Commissioner and her team have done a tremendous job in helping the many families and individuals get the assistance they deserve,” stated Racicot. “Whether it was helping a victim identify his or her insurance company or dealing with the claims adjusters directly, her department has been essential to facilitating relief.”

The Kansas Department of Insurance has issued a survey to insurers so they can obtain claims information relative to the Greensburg tornado and the insurance industry’s response. Results of that survey are expected to be released next week.

Source: AIA