As the first anniversary of the Palisades and Eaton fires nears, many families, who said to be still struggling to rebuild because they are navigating insurance hurdles, demanded Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara resign.
The victims said they had trusted their insurance companies, but they are not getting the help they need.
“At first, we thought, ‘Thank God we have insurance,’” one victim said. “What we faced instead was confusion, low-ball estimates and delay at every turn.”
The victims said no one in power is holding the insurance companies accountable, and they are asking Governor Gavin Newsom to step in.
“We’re here today to call on Governor Gavin Newsom to urge Commissioner Lara to resign,” Joy Chen from the Eaton Fire Survivors’ Network said Thursday.
Rene Richard, an Altadena homeowner, said, like other wildfire victims, she’s submitted everything the insurance company asked for, but getting hold of anyone is a challenge in itself.
“We’ve provided the information, pictures, the lists,” Richard said. “We keep calling and calling. No response then (it said,) ‘Oh, it’s been transferred to another.’”
Amy Yanow, another Altadena homeowner, said she and her children just want to “get home.”
“I’m a single working mom, and I work five hours a day, researching insurance laws and what my rights are. And no one is coming to help.”
Commissioner Lara’s office told NBC Los Angeles that it’s “working to address this insurance crisis and help survivors the best (it) can.”
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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