As Hurricane Ian approaches the Florida Keys and Florida’s Gulf Coast with major impacts projected on Tuesday night or early Wednesday, GEICO’s Catastrophe team is deploying to assist policyholders in its path. GEICO encourages everyone to prepare early. The National Hurricane Center expects Ian to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane that could bring high winds and flooding from significant storm surge.

GEICO has the following recommendations for Florida customers and others forecasted to be in the storm’s path. Customers can also refer to GEICO’s Hurricane Checklist for more ways to prepare.

Before the storm:

• Documentation: Secure any important documents for your vehicle including title and registration to help expedite your experience.
• Clean up – Remove any objects such as outdoor furniture or garbage bins that could become airborne during the high winds.
• Fill up or fully charge your vehicle – Getting gas after a hurricane may prove difficult if the power is knocked out or roads are impassable. The same goes for electrical vehicle owners, who should make sure they have a full charge before the storm hits.
• Make a supply kit now – Include at least three days of food and water, medications, toiletries, cash, batteries and a radio. (Do not forget animal care supplies.)
• Have an evacuation plan – Identify a safe place and discuss how you will communicate with your family if you are separated.
• Evacuation Shelters – Know where evacuation shelters are located in your area.
• Follow the directions of local officials.

In flooded conditions:

• Avoid driving through high water – If you don’t see the painted lines on the road, do not proceed. Six inches of moving water can knock a person down, and a foot can sweep your vehicle away according to Ready.gov.

If you are caught in the rain, remember to:

• Reduce your speed – Slowing down reduces the chances of hydroplaning. If you hydroplane, immediately take your foot off the accelerator and do not apply the brakes abruptly or turn the steering wheel. A rotating tire has traction, while a sliding one does not.
• Turn on your headlights – It’s the law, and by simply turning on your headlights you become more visible to other motorists.
• Maintain a safe distance – Increasing the distance between you and the vehicle ahead reduces the chance of a collision.

If your vehicle sustains any wind or water damage, here’s how to let us know immediately:

• Report your claim on your mobile device. Download GEICO Mobile.
• Go to GEICO’s online claims center.
• Call 1-800-841-3000.

GEICO’s claims teams are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist customers. We hope that you and those close to you will remain safe during the storm. Visit GEICO’s Catastrophe Response Team online to learn more about how we serve customers after severe storms.

GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company), the second-largest auto insurer in the U.S., was founded in 1936 and insures more than 30 million vehicles in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. A member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies, GEICO employs more than 41,000 associates countrywide. GEICO constantly strives to make lives better by protecting people against unexpected events while saving them money and providing an outstanding customer experience. Along with personal auto insurance, commercial auto and personal umbrella coverages are also available. Homeowners, renters, condo, flood, identity theft, term life, and more coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Visit geico.com for a quote or to learn more.

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