Kreidler issues emergency order directing insurers to extend protections to policyholders impacted by Washington wildfires

08/24/2023

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Washington state Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler issued an emergency order today requiring all property and casualty insurers to provide additional protections for policyholders impacted by the Gray and Oregon Road fires. 

“We’ve all seen the devastation caused by the ongoing wildfires in Eastern Washington,” said Kreidler. “People are worried about their own and their families’ safety and protecting their property. I don’t want them to have to worry about losing their insurance coverage while the emergency is ongoing and the difficult recovery for the…

Consumer alert: Kreidler’s advice for claims from wildfire damage

08/21/2023

OLYMPIA, Wash. — A hot, dry summer has opened the door for another intense wildfire season in Washington state. 

Whether your home is in the city, the suburbs or a rural area, your homeowners insurance policy should cover your home in the event of a fire — unless you intentionally set the fire yourself.

Washington state Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler offered advice to consumers whose homes may be endangered by wildfires this summer and looking to protect themselves going forward.

“Wildfire season is becoming a more dangerous, and regularly occurring,…

Wenatchee man pleads guilty to theft after filing a fraudulent claim

08/04/2023

OLYMPIA, Wash. — A Wenatchee man pled guilty to third-degree theft in Chelan County Superior Court after an investigation completed by Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler’s Criminal Investigations Unit (CIU).

Steven Frank pled guilty on July 17, 2023, and was ordered to pay $1,324 in restitution and $500 in court fees. 

On October 1, 2020, Frank was involved in a two-vehicle collision. At the time of the crash, he did not have insurance on his Chevy pickup. Later that day, Frank called Progressive and purchased an insurance policy on the truck, failing to disclose he…

Bench warrant issued for Bothell man who filed a falsified insurance claim for scuba gear

07/31/2023

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Santiago G. Rodriguez, of Bothell, Wash., has been added to Washington state Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler’s Most Wanted list after being charged with insurance fraud by the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office.

If you have information that may lead to his arrest, please contact your local law enforcement agency or contact Kreidler's Criminal Investigations Unit (CIU).

Rodriguez failed to appear at his arraignment to answer to the charge of false claims or proof. Consequently, a bench warrant was issued for…