Consumer Reports’ Readers Cite Katrina Claims Problems

Half of Consumer Reports’ readers who filed insurance claims resulting from Hurricane Katrina in 2005 said they had problems with their insurer, the magazine reported.

In the September issue of the consumer watchdog’s magazine, the organization says 26 percent of its readers also complained that they were paid too little for their claims.

“A disaster tests everyone, and in the eyes of our readers insures often failed that test,” the magazine said.

The magazine’s readers did have high praise for three insurers—Amica Mutual Group, USAA Group and the Chubb Group.

Readers said they were dissatisfied with the service of large insurers and delays in claims payments were a common complaint.