In 2017, there were 16 separate disasters in the U.S., which generated total record losses in excess of $306 billion (1). Most damage was the result of flooding, including historic floods associated with Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana, and record high water levels in Missouri, Arkansas and Illinois.

Here are facts you should not ignore:

• Flooding can happen practically anywhere at any time
• 25% of all flood damage occurs in low- to moderate-risk areas
• Floods occur in all 50 states
• Flooding is the costliest and most common natural disaster in the U.S. (2)
• Most Americans are seriously under insured

In the Northeast, floods can occur from spring snow melt, rapid rainfall, changing weather patterns and clogged rainwater systems. In general, they can also occur from tropical cyclones, structural failure leading to flash floods, or new building development.

It doesn't take much water to destroy a property and wipe out the finances of an uninsured homeowner or business. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) estimates that 1 inch of water in a home can create $20,000 worth of damage (3). And yet, few property owners have flood insurance (besides those in high-risk areas who are required by their lenders to purchase NFIP policies).

Think about this:

• Only 12% of U.S. homeowners had a flood insurance policy according to an Insurance Information Institute poll in 2016 (4)
  
• Less than 20% of homes damaged in Hurricane Harvey were insured for flood.
• 56% of respondents mistakenly believed that a standard homeowners policy covers flood damage according to a March 2017 survey.
• Most business insurance policies exclude flood damage.
• Flood maps are drawn by FEMA. Some research suggests that current flood maps seriously underestimate those in the high-risk 1-in-100-year floodplain, and one study suggests 40 million Americans, instead of the current estimate of 13 million, are at high-risk.

When considered together, these statistics paint a grim picture for Americans who don’t currently have flood insurance.

What about you?

A licensed insurance agent can help you understand the different insurance products available. Even with government-backed NFIP policies, some people may need excess coverage to cover up to replacement cost, and still others may benefit from various coverage options available with private insurance products instead of an NFIP plan, when available.

Ask a licensed Connecticut Insurance Exchange agent about flood insurance today.

Source: (1) According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). (2) FBLIC (3) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) (4) Insurance Information Institute Poll

Here's the bad news — the average American will have at least three auto accidents in their lifetime. (1)

Here's the good news — most accidents are not fatal.

Knowing how to handle an automobile accident can help you and your family through a stressful experience.

So, what should you do at the scene of a car accident?

1. Stop immediately, but don't obstruct traffic.
2. Document the scene of the accident. If it is safe to do so, take photos of the damage to both vehicles before you move them. If the accident is minor and it will not put anyone in jeopardy, move the cars to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights if needed.
3. Stay calm and assist the injured. Even if you think you are “OK,” your body can be pumped up with adrenaline, which can mask pain. After the adrenaline wears off, you may realize you were injured.
4. Collect information of the people involved. Get the name, phone number, and address of the other party including driver's license number, insurance company, policy number and claim phone number, as well as contact information of witnesses and injured persons. 
5. Collect information of all cars involved. Get the make and model of the vehicles and license plate numbers.
6. Call the police. Without a police report,  it may be difficult to convince your insurance company you were not at fault, jeopardizing your ability to be paid in full for your injuries and damages.
7. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after your accident. Give your insurance company as much complete and accurate information about the accident. The sooner you get complete information to them, the sooner your claim can be processed.

What should you NOT DO if you are involved in a car accident?

1. DO NOT take responsibility for the accident. Avoid saying anything that could sound like the accident was your fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” to the other party could be taken as an "admission of fault." Remain courteous and consistent in your version of the event.
2. DO NOT leave the scene of the accident. Especially if there are injuries or you could face criminal charges for a hit-and-run.
3. DO NOT discuss your accident on social media. Better yet, don’t talk to anyone about the accident other than your own insurance company and the police.

Questions or concerns regarding a claim?
Get your insurance agent involved! At Connecticut Insurance Exchange, writing a policy is only the beginning. We are committed to supporting our clients through all aspects of the insurance transaction — including accidents and claims.

If you have questions regarding the claims process, have trouble reaching an insurance company representative, or need a partner to advocate on your behalf, we're here to serve. That's Connecticut Insurance Exchange.

(1) More than 2.4 million people were injured and nearly 35,000 people died in 6.2 million crashes nationwide in 2015, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Adult drivers in the U.S. will file a car collision claim approximately once every 18 years according to carinsurance.com.