Maryland Insurance Administration Offers Post-Storm and Winter Preparedness Guidance

Per a press release from the Maryland Insurance Administration, Maryland residents impacted by recent severe weather are encouraged to utilize resources available on the administration’s website to navigate the aftermath. The information provided aims to assist individuals with damage assessment, filing insurance claims, and understanding weather-related snow damage. The administration also offers pre-disaster resources to help individuals prepare for future severe weather events. Maryland residents experiencing insurance-related issues or questions following the recent storms can contact the Maryland Insurance Administration at 1-800-492-6116 or 1-800-735-2258 (TTY), or visit their website.

While the Maryland Insurance Administration does not sell insurance policies or endorse specific companies, they provide assistance in understanding available coverage types. The administration is also available to help individuals with complaints concerning insurers, insurance producers, public adjusters, or advisors. Beyond storm-related assistance, the administration is promoting winter weather preparedness, including resources for maintaining an emergency car kit.

Furthermore, the Maryland Insurance Administration is co-hosting virtual events with the Maryland Health Connection focused on understanding health coverage. These sessions, scheduled for February 3rd (English) and February 5th (Spanish), will address common questions such as the definition of deductibles and co-pays, in-network requirements, and how to handle problems with health insurance. Information on finding upcoming events, including virtual and in-person options hosted by administration representatives within communities, can be found on their website.

Several featured topics are highlighted to help Marylanders manage common household concerns during colder months. A Consumer Advisory on “Frozen Pipes” is available to educate residents on preventing damage from freezing water in home plumbing systems. Homeowners and renters are also advised to update their home inventory by taking photos or videos of their belongings or using a dedicated app, especially in the new year.

The administration also directs attention to eye health, encouraging comprehensive eye examinations to protect against glaucoma, with further information available from the NIH National Eye Institute. In addition, a resource explaining “Umbrella Insurance” is offered, detailing how this type of policy provides additional liability protection. For those using generators, safety tips are emphasized, particularly the crucial warning against using generators, camp stoves, charcoal grills, or gasoline/propane heaters indoors.

Recent Consumer Advisories have been issued to inform the public about important insurance-related matters. These include guidance for properties damaged during winter storms, a warning about fake health insurance websites targeting shoppers during open enrollment periods, and advice on avoiding predatory towing practices. The administration has also issued a warning regarding the risks associated with the crowd-funding healthcare payment platform CrowdHealth.

For those enrolled in Medicare, a new “Birthday Rule” has been enacted, offering a yearly enrollment option for individuals with Medicare Supplement plans. More information and a video explaining this rule are available on the administration’s website. Residents seeking assistance with health coverage can connect with the free Health Coverage Assistance Team (H-CAT), which also provides services in Spanish.

In situations where insurance coverage for medically necessary care or emergency appeals is denied, Maryland residents can contact the Maryland Insurance Administration’s 24/7 hotline at 1-800-492-6116 for assistance. The administration also maintains a Mental Health Resources Page on its website for those seeking support. Information on past newsletters and other resources can be found by visiting their website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Insurance Administration

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