Georgia tornadoes bring US$2.5 million in claims

Tornadoes and deadly storms that ripped through Georgia on Wednesday have caused US$2.5 million in claims, estimates the state’s Insurance Commissioner, John Oxendine.He visited the devastated areas today, calling on insurers to quickly pay out claims.The storms claimed six lives, and damaged or destroyed about 160 homes.”Individuals in these areas have suffered devastating losses and should receive special consideration with regards to their insurance claims,” Oxendine says. “I have notified the larger insurers and expect them to first and foremost take care of the immediate needs of their policyholders. This includes providing immediate emergency funds for basic necessities such as food and shelter.”The storms hit Mitchell and Worth Counties in southern Georgia. The Insurance Commission notes that it has already sent personnel from the Consumer Services Division to assist consumers with claims, and some insurers are bringing in on-site staff to help policyholders.