TDI Sends Insurance Assistance Teams to Texas Counties Affected by Recent Severe Storms

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) is sending insurance specialists to Eagle Pass and to the Panhandle to help consumers affected by the recent storms. TDI experts will answer insurance questions, help consumers locate their insurance company or agent, explain the insurance claims process and assist with problems or complaints about an insurance company, adjuster or agent.

In Eagle Pass, TDI staff will be available at the Disaster Recovery Center established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), located at the Red Cross Relief Center, 253 Ruela, beginning Saturday, May 5, 2007. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

TDI is also deploying a mobile response team to Amarillo to assist consumers in Swisher and Moore counties, which also recently experienced severe storm activity.

People affected by the storms should register with FEMA so that they may be eligible for federal assistance; call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. People can also register online at www.fema.gov/assistance/register.shtm. The FEMA toll-free telephone numbers will operate seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (local time).

Resources for More Information 

• If you have questions about insurance, call TDI’s Consumer Help Line at 1-800-252-3439 or visit the TDI website at www.tdi.state.tx.us.
• You may also file a complaint with TDI through the toll-free phone number or the website, or by e-mailing TDI at ConsumerProtection@tdi.state.tx.us.
• To report a suspicious fire to TDI’s Arson/Burn Ban Hotline, call 1-877-434-7345.
• To report a case of suspected insurance fraud to TDI, call 1-888-327-8818.

For more information contact: PIO@tdi.state.tx.us

Last updated: 05/29/2007