Tree Down: Car and Home Damaged
Last night around 11:30 PM, a significant portion of a tree next to my house broke off, causing considerable damage. It ripped up my gutters, knocked down the overhang at my back door, crushed the roof of my shed, and shattered the back window of my car. There may be more damage that I haven’t discovered yet, and while I’m shaken by the whole experience, I’m grateful that no one was injured and that no one else’s property was affected.
In the middle of the night, while waiting for the police or fire department to arrive and assess the situation, I filed separate claims for the damage to my home and car with Progressive since I couldn’t sleep. After seven hours with no one showing up, I managed to get about three hours of rest, but that’s another story.
Currently, the tree is being propped up by the fallen overhang, the mostly intact shed, and my car. It’s also blocking my wife’s van, which means we’re stuck at home for the time being. We have enough food for a few days, and since I’m currently unemployed, we don’t have an urgent need to go anywhere other than getting our child to school.
I apologize if this comes across as disorganized. The past few months have been tough, and this situation has added a lot of mental stress. I’m uncertain about my next steps. I’ve taken several photos of the damage, but I’m sure they may need more or specific angles. I haven’t done much cleanup aside from removing a piece of wood with a nail outside the back door, and this situation feels overwhelming. Should I wait for Progressive to contact me, or should I reach out to them, even though it’s Saturday? I don’t think I’ve ever filed an insurance claim in the 20 years I’ve been with them, and I could really use some guidance on what to do next.
I’m really sorry to hear about the situation you’re facing; that sounds incredibly stressful and overwhelming. It’s good to hear that no one was hurt, but dealing with property damage can certainly take a toll.
Here are some steps you might consider taking:
Document Everything: Since you’ve already taken multiple photos, make sure to include any damage details and keep a record of any expenses you’ve incurred due to this situation. This documentation will be helpful for your insurance claim.
Contact Your Insurance: Given that it’s a Saturday and you’ve already filed a claim, it would be a good idea to call Progressive to follow up. They might be able to provide you with more information about the claims process and what you need to do next. If you can, have your policy number and claim number ready when you call.
Emergency Services: If the tree is still partially leaning and poses a further threat, consider contacting tree removal services or your local emergency services for assistance, especially if it may endanger your home or nearby structures.
Check Local Regulations: Sometimes, local codes dictate what needs to be done regarding downed trees. There may also be resources or programs in your area that can help with tree removal, especially if this is a widespread issue due to weather.
Reach Out for Support: Lean on friends or family for support during this tough time. Whether it’s help with getting your child to school or just someone to talk to, a support network can make a big difference.
Mental Health: Remember to take care of your mental health in the midst of all this. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to reach out for help, whether through friends, family, or professional resources.
Lastly, take it one step at a time and don’t hesitate to ask for help where you need it. You’re doing your best in a tough situation, and it’s okay to feel the weight of that stress. Hang in there!