Pawnee Quake Victims Get Help With Insurance Claims

Representatives from the Oklahoma Insurance Department are giving Pawnee homeowners free help in navigating insurance claims.  

On Wednesday, the U.S. Geological Survey upgraded the strength of two Oklahoma earthquakes.

Last Saturday's quake in Pawnee was updated to a 5.8-magnitude quake.  The most powerful ever recorded in the state.  Also, the 2011 earthquake in Prague was updated to a 5.7-magnitude.

9/7/2016 Related Story: USGS Upgrades Pawnee County Earthquake To 5.8 Magnitude

Officials say the average homeowner insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage. And those who do have earthquake specific insurance, don't have enough coverage. 

So the department's Consumer Assistance Division sat down to walk residents through the process Thursday. 

They are talking about the specifics of what the policies cover and as well as how soon new policies can be written. 

With this earthquake being the largest ever recorded, officials say they are committed to helping those impacted.

"Being right here in the community to let them know that we care we support them we'll answer the questions we'll direct them to the right place we'll help them with the claim it's something we've been doing a long time in Oklahoma," said Insurance Commissioner John Doak.

News 9's Justin Dougherty confirms the state Insurance Department met with 20 victims on Thursday and about 15 do not have earthquake insurance. The OID says it's now up to the insurance company of each individual victim to see whether or not damages are covered.