Mercury Insurance Flags $50B in Hail Losses, Recommends Preseason Preparations

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Mercury Insurance warns that severe hailstorms have driven over $50 billion in insured losses in recent years, with some storms causing extensive roof, vehicle and siding damage in minutes. The carrier recommends inspecting roofs, using covered parking, securing outdoor items and reviewing policy deductibles and coverage limits before hail season.

1. Hail Season Drives Massive Insured Losses

Mercury notes that severe convective storms, including hail, have driven more than $50 billion in insured losses across the U.S. in recent years, making hail a perennial and costly threat to property.

2. Hail Damage Occurs in Minutes

Hailstones ranging from small pellets to over two inches in diameter can fracture roofing, dent vehicles and damage siding within minutes, often leaving hidden fractures that worsen over time.

3. Recommended Customer Preparations

The insurer advises policyholders to inspect and maintain roofs, use covered parking or temporary vehicle covers, bring outdoor furniture indoors and reinforce windows and doors. It also recommends reviewing deductibles and coverage limits before hail season.

4. Business Implications for Mercury Insurance

Rising hail claims could pressure Mercury’s loss ratios and reserves, potentially prompting premium rate adjustments in key states. Proactive customer guidance may help mitigate claim severity and support underwriting stability.

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