RMA TO EXPEDITE CROP INSURANCE CLAIMS FROM HURRICANE CHARLEY IN FLORIDA

Contact: James Callan (202) 720-8812
Savonne Caughey (202) 720-6200

WASHINGTON, Aug 20, 2004 – The Risk Management Agency (RMA) is currently working with insurance providers to finalize claim processing procedures that will expedite the payment of insured claims. The exact procedures will be issued to the insurance providers early next week. Included in the modifications will be additional flexibility given to insured farmers regarding the timing of providing "notice of loss" to the companies. This will permit those who have suffered losses to address personal or family priorities first.

Among the more significant crops damaged in the affected areas are citrus fruits, nursery crops and citrus trees. Other crops impacted by the storm include corn, sweet corn, tomatoes, peppers, sugarcane and clams.

While the amount of insurance coverage that was purchased is known, it is still too soon to accurately determine the extent of the losses. Some areas that received the most damage are still inaccessible. Until those areas can be surveyed, accurate loss estimates are not possible.

Insurance loss adjusters are actively engaged in adjusting losses now. As the need arises, they will receive additional training needed to handle this situation.

Florida farmers affected by Hurricane Charley should contact their insurance agents as soon as possible, and check the RMA website regularly for updates and information related to the Federal crop insurance program and claims filing.