Hurricane Update
We stand ready to help.
During catastrophic events such as Hurricanes Helene and Milton, our thoughts and prayers go out to all who are impacted. Time is of the essence during these events and GAINSCO is committed to providing the best possible customer service to you. Please report your claim as soon as possible so we can get right to work. We will guide you through every step of the claims process and get you back on the road.
Reporting your claim
Taking care of you is our priority. Please be patient as many locations in the impacted areas have restricted access or our ability to physically reach you may be limited due to road conditions. Here are some immediate steps you can take to reduce damage to your car and prepare for your claim.
- If possible, mitigate or prevent additional damage by removing water from the inside of the vehicle and/or covering broken windows to prevent water from entering.
- Take photos of your vehicle including:
– All four corners of the vehicle showing all sides of the vehicle
– One photo of the license plate or VIN plate
– Photos of the damage or waterline on the vehicle - Include your email address in all communication (including by phone). Email addresses can be very useful in exchanging required documentation and may increase response time.
Preparing your call
So we can best serve you, please have the following information available when you call:
Your policy numberYou can find your policy number at the top of your monthly statement. The policy number is made up of letters and numbers.
Having your policy number available when you call will help us to quickly identify your coverage information and begin processing your claim.
Most GAINSCO policies are purchased through an independent insurance agent. By providing your agent’s name, we are able to quickly recover the documents and other information the agent has on file pertaining to your policy.
This helps us get you back on the road faster.
Most incidents related to hurricane’s catastrophic damage happened during the specific period when the storm made landfall and flooding took place. Please make every effort to remember the specific date on which the damages occurred to your vehicle and have it handy when you call GAINSCO.
Location of incidentIn addition to the date of the incident, we will ask you where your vehicle was located when the incident took place. Be sure to include details about the exact location so that we can accurately process your claim.
These details might include your address and/or the cross streets, businesses located nearby, and other landmarks that identify the location of your vehicle.
When you call to file your claim, we will ask you questions about the vehicle involved in the incident and the extent of the damage. Please note the following:
- If the car was impacted by wind damage and type and location of the damage
- In case of a vehicle flood, where the water line may have peaked in the vehicle
- If the car was being driven or stationary at the time of the incident
- The amount of time the car was submerged in water
- What steps were taken to mitigate the damages
- Whether the car was flooded in salt or fresh water
- Photographs of all four corners of the vehicle and water line are especially helpful
Given the nature of the events surrounding strong hurricanes, we realize you may be displaced. When you contact our claims service center, please provide multiple ways that we may contact you. These may include a cell number and the phone number of where you are currently staying.
A reliable email address that you check frequently is also a great resource so we can maintain contact with you.
Information for Non-Repairable (Total Loss) Vehicles
In the event your vehicle is deemed to be non-repairable (total loss) having the following items ready can help to make the settlement process fast and easy:
If your vehicle is scheduled to be picked up by GAINSCO or Copart, please remove all personal belonging, if possible, from the vehicle.