PZU: More than EUR 26 million already paid to the victims of the recent floods in the Central Europe

26 September 2024 — Daniela GHETU
Polish insurance market’s leader PZU has announced it has paid until 25 September a total of over PLN 111 million (~EUR 26 million) in advances and compensations, to help victims of the recent floods that have hit Central Europe, significantly affecting also Poland. The company has already issued decisions regarding 70% of the claims reported by clients.

According to Gazety Ubezpieczeniowa, quoting PZU representatives, nearly 700 people are involved in the entire operation – from branch employees, agents and mobile experts operating in flooded areas, to coordinating and managing people at the regional and central level. Applications are accepted through many channels – in the mojePZU service, on the PZU website, through the hotline. A huge role is also played by PZU's Mobile Offices, which since 16 September have reached wherever the falling water has made it possible to get there.

“In this difficult situation, we will not leave any of our clients without care and support. PZU has extensive experience in  handling mass losses resulting from the effects of atmospheric elements. We have mobilized additional forces in  the organization to  be able to provide assistance to our clients as soon as possible when a cataclysm occurs and  to make the process of documenting, estimating and reporting losses and paying advances and compensation as easy as possible. However, we started acting even before the losses actually occurred, warning our policyholders and indicating available procedures,” said Irmina Nowak, Managing Director for Claims and Benefits Handling at PZU. 

PZU has decided to extend support to all residents of the flooded towns by increasing its special fund by an additional PLN 5 million, bringing the total to PLN 24 million. This fund supports local governments, the State Fire Service, Volunteer Fire Brigades, the police, and NGOs involved in flood relief efforts.

The funds address the most urgent needs, such as purchasing evacuation equipment, motor pumps, power generators, thermal blankets, medical supplies, and dressing materials. Nearly PLN 600,000 was allocated to the Provincial Police Headquarters in Wrocław and Opole, enabling Lower Silesian police to buy quads and related equipment, enhancing mobility and efficiency in rescue operations in flooded areas. Local governments also receive funds for essential items like sandbags, shovels, motor pumps, thermoses, jackets, fleece, waders, gloves, and flashlights.

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