Enjoying peace of mind and protecting your property are two common reasons for seeking the best insurance coverage. National data shows that lightning strikes have been on the rise, with State Farm paying out over $220 million in claims last year. They recorded more than 18,000 lightning-related claims, averaging around $17,000 each. This number rose significantly from the previous year, which saw only $177.4 million in claims averaging just $15,000 each.
Extreme weather has been increasing nationally, and news stories frequently depict the resulting damage. Consequently, the Insurance Information Institute recorded more than $1.2 billion in homeowners insurance claims for lightning damage in 2023, dispersed to over 70,000 policyholders. The number of storm claims increased by 13.8% between 2022 and 2023.
Nature’s Fury: The Growing Frequency of Lightning Strikes
A detailed report by Vaisala Xweather showed around 242 million lightning flashes in the U.S. during 2023, the most in the past seven years. This drastic rise in lightning strikes highlights the need for adequate coverage. Lightning, occasionally a wondrous natural phenomenon, can cause significant property damage. Some storms can even be fatal, emphasizing the importance of understanding the risks associated with your home.
Insuring Against Nature’s Fury: Policies That Cover Lightning Strikes
Although there isn’t a specific policy for lightning strikes, your renters, condo, or homeowners policy can assist in such events. Contact us at the Alexander Agency of St Charles with any questions about lightning damage. While tornadoes often concern Missouri homeowners, falling branches from lightning strikes can pose a significant threat, damaging roofs or windows. Missouri ranked 7th for overall lightning damage claims last year, with Texas leading in paid claims.
Strike-Safe: Best Practices for Lightning Protection
We offer excellent coverage for unexpected weather. Storms are serious events that can change instantly. Here are some tips for facing a storm:
- Take shelter as soon as the storm gets serious.
- Avoid touching appliances like hair dryers or surge protectors during a storm.
- Stay away from pipes, showers, sinks, and other water sources.
- Don’t lean on or stand on concrete structures with metal bars.
- Seek shelter in a vehicle with a hard top if caught outside.
- Avoid metal surfaces like sliding doors.
- Stay clear of gas-powered appliances like ovens and water heaters.
- Call 911 immediately if someone is struck by lightning.
How to File A Lightning Insurance Claim
Filing any insurance claim can be daunting, but preparation increases your chances of success. Here are some tips:
- Document the damage with photos and videos from different angles.
- Write detailed descriptions of the damage, noting the date and time of the storm.
- Keep a record of damaged items, including their age, value, and estimated repair or replacement costs.
Stormy weather can make even the most solid Show-Me-State residents nervous. The recent damages have been staggering. At the Alexander Agency of St Charles, we understand the value of unparalleled security and the trust in doing business with reliable partners. Contact us today to ensure minimal impact from Mother Nature’s wrath.