With any disaster comes a flood of insurance claims. Many claims are made regarding damage to a home or property, but cars also suffer damage from high winds, flooding, and downed tree limbs, all possible during a hurricane or tropical storm.

North Carolina Farm Bureau expects to receive about 18,000 to 20,000 insurance claims due to Hurricane Irene’s winds and flooding over the weekend, and many estimates are currently hovering around $200 million to $400 million in total damage claims in the state, which is relatively low compared to past hurricane events.

However, only drivers who have comprehensive car insurance coverage can file claims of this nature. Neither collision coverage nor liability insurance cover wind or water damage to a vehicle.

But will insurance rates increase in states affected by Irene?

In an attempt recoup lost monies, insurance companies on the Eastern seaboard may raise rates, but no announcements have been made.

More likely, those who file claims will see a slight increase in their insurance premiums, but other policy holders in the state shouldn’t be affected.