I often say: “We’re in the business to pay claims” and we pay many. When I began in this business in 1978, I chose this segment of the insurance business because I liked the opportunity of helping people solve their problems in a real way with insurance when they would have a claim. Paying claims is one of the primary joys of what I/we do.

This fall season always has its claims challenges and I thought I would outline 8 of the most consistent claims we file on behalf of our insureds at this time of year. A little prevention might help you not to have one and face deductible expenses if you have to file one of these claims.

Fire & Smoke Damage

Just like summer means more grill-related fires, in the fall more time is spent indoors and fireplaces, wood stoves and candles become the culprits. According to Ready.gov, more than 2,500 people lose their lives in house fires each year, and another 12,600 are injured. Property losses from these fires total more than $7.3 billion annually, and many homeowners fail to understand that the time from a small flame to a home being fully-engulfed can be mere seconds.

To reduce the likelihood of fire:

• Inspect chimneys annually and clean as needed. How frequently a chimney needs to be cleaned depends on how often it is used.
• Open the flue before starting a fire.
• Don’t leave candles lit in unoccupied rooms. In addition, make sure pets can’t knock them over and keep them away from curtains and clothing.
• Don’t leave pots or pans cooking unattended on the stove.
• Don’t smoke if drowsy, cigarettes can fall into furniture cushions and smolder before igniting.
• Don’t overload electrical outlets with appliances.

Water & Freezing Damage

Water damage is the most common type of loss reported, according to Xactware. The firm received 1.2 million water damage estimates in 2014, and the average estimate totaled $6,089.

Freezing pipes and water damage account for an average of 20% in 4th QTR. claims. Burst pipes, dishwashers, water heaters, ice makers, water supply lines and toilet valves are frequent sources of water damage. Turning the main water valve off when leaving a home for several days can reduce the risk.

Home Thefts

Home robberies increase about 7% in the summer but there is an even bigger increase when the weather turns cooler. There is statistical evidence that the number jumps to 25% in the latter part of the year. Smart homeowners keep lights on a timer and use motion detectors for outdoor lights. Today’s home apps let owners monitor remotely to see who is coming and going. Valuables should be stored in either a fireproof safe or a safety deposit box.

Auto Thefts

Approximately 25% of the year’s auto theft claims occur during the fourth quarter. The Insurance Information Institute found that over $4 billion worth of auto thefts were reported in 2013. Cars full of gifts and other items can be tempting to thieves. Taking some preventative actions can reduce the chances that you’ll be the victim of a theft.

Snow & Ice

34% of all skidding and snow claims occur between October and December. Before cold weather hits, check the tread on tires and make sure they are properly inflated. Decrease speeds on wet, icy or leaf-covered roads. During winter months, keep the gas tank at least half full since getting stuck in snow traffic can burn fuel quickly. Also check the battery, windshield wipers, anti-freeze and wiper fluid levels. Consider leaving a shovel, blanket and some non-perishable snacks in the car in case of a breakdown.

Parking Lot Claims

With the holidays just a few weeks away, shoppers are flocking to malls and shopping centers in greater numbers. This means more drivers and an increase in parking lot-related claims. Damage from shopping carts, car thefts and tight parking spaces are just a few of the hazards. On average, 25% of parking lot-related claims occur between now and the end of the year.

Rear End Collisions

According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), there are approximately 1.7 million rear-end collisions in the U.S. each year. During the fourth quarter, most of those types of claims occur and 87% of them are caused by drivers who aren’t paying attention. It’s important to put down the phone, stop adjusting the radio, and back up slowly, checking mirrors and windows multiple times for oncoming cars.

Animal Collisions

Deer are no longer confined just to country areas. As development spreads into their natural habitats, these animals can be found in highly populated areas, especially as food becomes scarcer. Hitting a large animal can be just as dangerous as hitting another car, so always wear a seatbelt. Animals tend to be more active at dawn and dusk, so watch for deer, raccoons, foxes and coyotes.

Contact Us

Hopefully, these spotlighted claims can help you avoid one. We’re here to cover you if any of these occur and we do our best to make a tough situation a positive one for you. If we can help you with anything insurance, please let us know. Our staff is ready to help at 615.377.1212 or EMAIL us at info@BentonWhite.com. Let us EARN your business!