The aftermath of the devastating storm that hit Latvia nearly two weeks ago is still being felt, with insurance company „BALTA“ receiving over 2200 compensation claims. Currently, the company is preparing to pay out one of the largest compensations – approximately 83,000 euros – for damages caused to a 2024 model „Range Rover“ vehicle.
The vehicle was damaged when a building’s underground parking lot flooded during heavy rains. Despite the building owners‘ efforts to contain the water by building sandbag barriers, the downpour was too intense, and their attempts were unsuccessful.
The vehicle remained completely submerged underwater for three days, resulting in irreparable damage to all electronic and control units, as well as the interior, engine, and other crucial components. In such cases, manufacturer warranties are void. Independent assessments have concluded that a quality repair is not feasible – the car would essentially need to be rebuilt. Therefore, the decision was made to write it off, compensating the owner for the full value of the vehicle.
„So far, ‚BALTA‘ has received 78 compensation claims related to storm-induced damages to vehicles. While many vehicles are repairable, several will be written off. We have identified five such vehicles, including a practically new ‚Range Rover‘ worth approximately 83,000 euros. This is one of the largest compensations calculated to date that we will pay to a client for the recent storm-related damages. It is expected that the total compensation amount will exceed 3.5 million euros,“ revealed Armands Lagons, Head of Private Property and Special Products Management at „BALTA.“
The cyclone, accompanied by heavy rain and winds, approached Latvia from the south on the evening of July 28 and continued to wreak havoc for approximately a day. It caused various damages, including flooded ground floors and basements of buildings, trees and branches knocked down by the wind damaging structures and vehicles, and in several cases, roof structures unable to withstand the strong winds. A significant number of relatively minor damages were recorded, such as rainwater entering properties through exterior walls due to the substantial amount of rainfall. However, there were also substantial damages: many properties were submerged in water for several days due to flooding, resulting in damaged floors and furniture, potentially compromised building foundations; both flooded and fallen trees and branches caused serious damage to vehicles; and several properties had damaged roofs.
The „Range Rover“ vehicle that „sank“ in the July storm-induced floods in Kauguri. Photo: Publicity.
In conclusion, the impact of the recent storm in Latvia has been significant, with „BALTA“ facing a substantial number of compensation claims for damages to vehicles and properties. The company is diligently working to assess and address the aftermath of the storm, providing necessary support to affected individuals and ensuring timely compensation for their losses.