Many Memphis flood victims are relying on their insurance from companies like GEICO Insurance to help with their damaged vehicles. For those without flood coverage from their car insurance company, FEMA provides federal aid to those who qualify. One Memphis woman who was a victim of the flooding recently found out that the Federal Emergency Management Agency would not be providing relief to her, according to “No FEMA car aid for Memphis flooding victim.” The article, from Kevin McKenzie of The Commercial Appeal, states that she did not qualify because she didn’t carry the minimum required car insurance.
FEMA’s rules clearly state that cars must be “street legal” to qualify for their “Other Needs Assistance”, meaning that owners must have license plates that are current and carry the required minimum of liability insurance coverage. While this particular Memphis woman has a sad story in that she is widowed and fighting breast cancer, there is nothing FEMA can do because she doesn’t meet the program requirements. Car insurance companies are also struggling with high rates of damage to vehicles in the Memphis flooding. Natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes can take a large toll, especially on smaller companies. FEMA did direct the flood victim to a charity website where she may be able to get a car, so she still has another route to pursue. This story just helps to stress the importance of carrying at least the minimum amount of car insurance.
