Hurricane Insurance Information Center Opens in Florida

In the aftermath of the Hurricane Charley, the U.S. insurance industry has established the Hurricane Insurance Information Center (HIIC) in Punta Gorda, FL.

The HIIC will provide on-the-spot information on the insurance industry’s response, supplying claim filing tips and maintain a dialogue with the public through an active consumer outreach program.

A web site, www.disasterinformation.org, will offer information on insurance coverages and refer people to insurers, government agencies, and other sources of assistance.

“The insurance industry is reaching out to the people of Florida to help them rebuild their homes and business after this devastating storm,” said Gordon Stewart, president of the Insurance Information Institute, which is establishing the Center on behalf of the major organizations representing the insurance industry.

The insurance industry has created similar disaster insurance information offices following major catastrophes, including Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the Northridge Earthquake in 1994 and the 9/11 terrorist attack in New York City. The disaster offices provided insurance information to thousands of displaced homeowners and businesses in restoring communities.

The Hurricane Insurance Information Center will be located at IMPAC University, 900 West Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, FL 33950. The telephone number is (941) 639-4682.