Hail claims, scams continue

A storm that dumped golf-ball-size hail on Mid-Missouri last week is driving an increase in home and automobile damage claims to insurance companies, as well as inquiries to the local Better Business Bureau branch about firms offering to perform damage assessments on houses. State Farm Insurance Cos. yesterday reported more than 1,200 new auto damage claims since Friday’s storm and more than 400 new home damage claims, said Jim Camoriano, a spokesman for the company. He said he would expect to see more home damage claims as time passes, as damage might not be immediately observed by homeowners.