Rhode Island Requiring Companies to Provide Emergency Contact Information

As part of developing an emergency adjuster access and coordination plan, the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation, Insurance Division, has issued a bulletin requiring all Property & Casualty insurers (including surplus lines insurers) licensed or approved to do business in Rhode Island to immediately provide the Department with emergency contact information.

The department is requiring companies to designate a Primary Contact Person (“PCP”), and an Alternate Contact Person (“ACP”) in the event the PCP is not available, and provide contact information for the individuals. The contact person will serve as the primary conduit between the insurer, and the Department before, during and after a catastrophic event.

The Department said that the PCP and ACP should have the authority to provide assistance and information to the Department at all times during such event. Also included within the Plan is a Vehicle Identification Placard system that will allow vehicle access into disaster areas for vehicles carrying insurance company personnel and firms can order placards as part of registering.

The Department said it would make every effort to issue Bulletins before, during and/or after a disaster is declared in Rhode Island to offer guidance and assistance to the industry during such event. In the event of extended power outages, efforts to reach the PCP will be made via cellular phone.

The Department's liaison for catastrophic events in RI is Paula Pallozzi, Chief Property & Casualty Rate Analyst who may be reached at paula_pallozzi@dbr.state.ri.us or 401-462-9616.

Companies should visit the state's website to furnish emergency company contact information. Alien Surplus Line Insurers that do not have NAIC/FEIN numbers should contact Ms. Pallozzi directly. For more information about the information required, please download a copy of the bulletin.