Oxendine: Insured Losses From Tuesday's Storms Estimated At $6 Million, Expectd To Rise

Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John W. Oxendine said insured losses from
Tuesday night’s storms in Cherokee and North Fulton Counties is estimated at $6 million, though that amount will probably rise as more damage reports come in.

“This morning (May 21, 2008) I documented damage in communities north of Atlanta that was quite extensive,” Oxendine said. “As we get more reports from insurance companies, I expect the loss amount will have to be adjusted upward.”

Oxendine reminds Georgians that they can call his Consumer Services Division at 404-
656-2070 or, outside the Metro area, 1-800-656-2298, if they have questions about a claim, or if they are experiencing difficulty reaching their insurance company. Phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Consumers with damaged property can take the following steps to begin the claims-filing
process:

* Contact your insurance agent immediately if you have had damage to either your house
or car; do not delay. Your agent should provide you with claims forms and arrange for an
insurance adjuster to visit your property or look at your automobile.

* Secure your property. For example, if your roof was damaged or blown off, or a tree
has punctured the roof, cover the affected area with a tarp or plywood to protect your property
from further damage. Keep receipts of materials used for repairs; your insurance company will
reimburse you for repair costs.