Whether you live in the New England part of the country, or somewhere else, you are probably familiar with the nor’easter weather pattern. With a few of these storms occurring back to back, several weeks in a row, it weighs heavily on an area. In some cases, these large storms cause damage that leads to an increase in catastrophe claims. Take some time to learn more about these storms, working with claims, and reasons to use a claims service for an influx in business.
What is a Nor’easter?
A nor’easter is a storm system that begins in the Atlantic Ocean that is created when a strong amount of low pressure builds along the northeast coast of the country. In the Weather Channel’s “What is a Nor’Easter?†they explain these storms can happen at any time of year. Nor’easters begin to develop on a 100 mile stretch east or west of the coast that starts in the Gulf of Mexico, or somewhere north east of it. There are some cases where they can develop in the Midwest, but commonly it’s east of New England. As nor’easters work their way up, their intensity increases. They hit a peak level of intensity in the New England area. In the warmer months, they are responsible for high winds, torrential downpours or extreme amounts of snow, and flooding.
Types of Damage
Once a nor’easter begins, its destruction can have a negative impact on an area. Since many of the cities affected are coastal, that puts them at an increased risk for devastating flooding. The high winds can also break windows, pick up items that destroy anything in their path, and much more. In addition, power lines are downed, and roads become impossible to drive on due to debris and flood waters. It’s said that the recent string of back to back nor’easters have caused nearly $1 billion in damage.
Working with Clients and Overflow
During large storms such as nor’easters, insurance companies should expect to have an influx in claims. In fact, thousands and thousands of people may experience some type of damage thanks to the high winds and flooding. As you hear about potential weather threats to areas you serve, it is crucial to have a plan in place to accommodate customers. You will be working with scared and frustrated homeowners, so it is important to remain calm. Know their frustration is not necessarily with you if they are angry. Do your best to assure them you are helping every way you can. If you do not think your company can handle the influx of claims, utilize the service of a claims service. It will help you keep your business and triage the calls that come in.
With a new season upon us, make sure your business knows the latest on spring inclement weather safety and catastrophe claims. Have your backup plan ready by using Aspen Claims Service as your go-to claims adjusting service. Our team of adjusters will help you if your business has an incoming influx of traffic due to inclement weather. Call us at 888-819-5904 today to see how we can work together.
