The Connecticut Department of Insurance published a department notice providing information on the requirements expected of insurers following a state of emergency declaration. The declaration was made in response to flooding in certain parts of the state due to severe rainfall.
The declaration allowed for the Department to republish Bulletins IC-31 and IC-29, outlining the expectations of P&C and health insurers. Bulletin IC-31 asks that insurers consider the magnitude of the weather event and adjust and satisfy claims promptly and in good faith. Insurers are expected to promptly survey and assess damages, provide quick and accurate responses to claimants, and provide prompt payment for ALE and temporary repairs, among other things.
Insurers are also asked to suspend the collection of premiums to make sure there is no lapse in coverage for consumers. This suspension does not mean forgiveness of the payment, but is a grace period granted to insureds as they deal with the aftermath of the disaster.
Bulletin IC-29 asks health insurers to make payments for necessary medical equipment and for up to a 90-day supply of prescription medication, subject to state or federal law. Health care centers should provide emergency services for those in need on an in-network basis.
These requirements apply to the flooded areas of Fairfield, New Haven, and Lichfield counties.
The notice can be found here.