This weekend kicks off Independence Day celebrations and with that comes an increase in the use of fireworks. Hoosiers are reminded that Indiana has several laws governing fireworks and many towns and cities have additional ordinances that Hoosiers must follow. The Indiana Department of Insurance is warning Hoosier homeowners and renters that accidental damage caused by fireworks that are banned in their counties may not be covered by their homeowners or renters insurance policies. Many insurance policies contain provisions disclaiming coverage for illegal acts committed by the insured. However, consumers who experience injury or property damage due to another person’s use of fireworks may be able to claim benefits under their homeowners or renters policy.
“It’s important for Hoosiers to consider the consequences before using fireworks,” said IDOI Commissioner Stephen W. Robertson. “If someone using fireworks accidentally starts a fire, to their own property or that of their neighbors, they may not be able to turn to their insurance company for coverage.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more fires are reported nationwide on Independence Day than any other day of the year. The NFPA reported from 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 18,500 fires caused by fireworks, which included 1,300 structure fires.
