Oxendine issues directive to insurers to pay storm claims promptly

Atlanta (May 13, 2008) – Insurance Commissioner John W. Oxendine has issued a directive today ordering insurance companies to pay claims arising from this past weekend’s devastating storms in a timely manner, and to “exercise leniency in dealing with affected individuals and businesses that may experience difficulty paying premiums.”

   “Insurance companies need to be understanding when so many of their clients’ lives have been disrupted to the extent that we’re seeing in storm-damaged areas,” Oxendine said. “And those affected policyholders need prompt relief in the form of claims payments from their insurers.”

   The Commissioner sent consumer service personnel to storm-damaged areas in Bibb, Carroll, Clayton, and Douglas Counties yesterday to help storm victims expedite claims; he said he expects his representatives to remain in affected communities throughout the week. Help can also be obtained by calling his Consumer Services Division at 404-656-2070 or, outside the Metro area, 1-800-656-2298, with any questions about a policy or claim.