A hail storm that swept through Daviess County early Saturday morning and left behind cracked windshields, dented vehicles, and other damage — but so far, no reports of serious injuries or extreme structural loss.
Daviess County Sheriff Brad Youngman said most of the storm-related calls his office has received involved downed trees, utility lines, and property damage due to hail. Several sheriff’s cruisers were also impacted, suffering the same kind of cracked glass and dents that many residents have reported.
“We are still assessing damage and responding to various storm-related calls,” Youngman said. “We haven’t heard any reports of injuries or extreme damage. Most reports are hail related.”
Youngman added that many of the department’s cruisers suffered similar damage as other people’s cars, including minor dents and broken windows.
Youngman also noted a traffic accident that occurred about an hour before the storm hit. A semi and a car collided at Wrights Landing Road and U.S. 60 East when the car pulled into the path of the truck. The driver of the car was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. Alcohol is believed to be a factor, and the incident remains under investigation.
As residents begin the cleanup process, local insurance agents are offering important tips to guide storm victims through the claims process.
Sarah Mills, a Kentucky Farm Bureau agent, advised residents to act quickly when filing claims and to keep documentation of all temporary repairs.
“Turn in your claim as soon as you can,” Mills said. “Have temporary repairs made to stop leaking, take photos and make receipts. Do not sign a repair contract with a company you do not know is reputable.”
Daniel Dick, a State Farm agent, emphasized the importance of documenting damage and working only with licensed and insured local contractors.
“Mitigate your damages with tarps and temporary repairs and keep receipts,” Dick said. “Be careful when signing anything. And remember, you must have comprehensive coverage for hail or auto glass damage to be covered.”
Mills and Dick also want to remind residents to be patient as insurance companies work through a high volume of claims in the coming days.
“Keep photos of hail or damage in case needed,” he said. “There are going to be thousands of claims, so be patient with your agents.”
