The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reported on Feb. 21 a revised estimate of 250,500 vehicles that were damaged as a result of Hurricane Sandy. This estimate is still considered a preliminary report.

While it is not illegal to buy or sell flood vehicles, the NICB warned consumers to be cautious of buying a used vehicle in the months following a disaster — as they may not be advertised for sale with an indication that they were affected.

The following is a list of states generating Sandy-related vehicle damage claims:

New York 150,000
New Jersey 60,000
Connecticut 8,000
Maryland 5,500
Massachusetts 5,000
Virginia 4,500
Ohio 4,000
Pennsylvania 4,000
Delaware 2,000
New Hampshire 2,000
North Carolina 1,500
District of Columbia 1,000
Rhode Island 1,000
West Virginia 1,000
Maine 500
Vermont 500
Total 250,500


The current estimate of vehicles damaged as a result of Sandy is based on claims processed by insurance companies. The figures are preliminary and may change as additional claims are received and processed. Also, uninsured vehicles that were damaged were not included in the report.

As well, there is no determination as to the extent of damage to these vehicles, the NICB said. They could have sustained minor paint scratches from flying debris, or have been under water for days and rendered total losses.

To learn more visit www.nicb.org.

0 Comments