Insurance Information Institute Offers Guidance to Texans, Louisianans As Tropical Storm Barry Approaches

NEW YORK, July 11 -- The Insurance Information Institute issued the following news release:

Tropical Storm Barry has the potential to cause property damage along the Gulf Coast which is covered under different insurance policies, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).

Wind-caused property damage is covered under standard homeowners, renters and business insurance policies. Renters' insurance covers a renter's possessions; the landlord insures the structure.

Property damage to a home, a renter's possessions, and a business--resulting from a flood--is generally covered under FEMA National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies, if the homeowner, renter, or business has purchased one. There are, however, a few private insurers who offer flood insurance.

Private-passenger vehicles damaged or destroyed by either wind or flooding are covered under the optional comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy. Nearly 80 percent of U.S. drivers choose to purchase comprehensive coverage.

The I.I.I. offers these recommendations to Gulf Coast residents:

* Review your evacuation plan and, if you have a pet, your pet's evacuation plan

* Write down the name and phone number of your insurer and insurance professional and keep this information either in your wallet or purse

* Purchase emergency supplies, such as batteries and flashlights

* Prepare your yard by removing all outdoor furniture, lawn items, planters and other materials that could be picked up by high winds

* Fill your car's gasoline tank because long gas lines and fuel shortages often follow a major tropical storm