04/30/2026
Good morning, everyone. I just got off a conference call with State Farm's claims leadership and wanted to share an update on where things stand.
Staffing: State Farm is deploying 266 claims specialists to our area, many already on the ground, with the rest arriving over the next few days. They'll be working extended hours, seven days a week. Please understand that with over 5,000 vehicles affected as of last night — and still climbing — plus significant homeowner claims, this will take time. But the pace is going to pick up meaningfully in the coming days.
First Contact: Claims teams are actively reaching out to every policyholder as quickly as possible. That initial call is the starting point — they'll walk you through your options, assess the situation, and determine the best path forward for your specific claim. If you haven't heard from anyone yet, you will.
Virtual Inspections: The fastest path forward for most claims is the virtual inspection process. Your claims handler will send you a link, and you can complete the inspection by video and photo — typically about 45 minutes. This allows the full national claims team to assist, not just local staff. It's not for everyone, but if you're comfortable with it, it will likely get your claim moving sooner.
Total Loss Process: In severe cases — particularly older vehicles, generally 2019 model year and older, with extensive damage — State Farm may be able to move directly to a valuation. Every vehicle is evaluated individually during your claims contact.
Select Service: Select Service scheduling is currently turned off in Greene County — not by choice, but because local shops have reached capacity and are booked out well into the future. You can still take your vehicle to a Select Service shop if they're willing to accept the work; it just won't go through the formal referral process right now. This could change as capacity opens up.
Drive-In Location: A drive-in inspection will be set up in Springfield. The vehicles, tents, and personnel are en route — they're working on locking down the right location given the space requirements. Once it's announced, please wait for a scheduled appointment rather than showing up unannounced. Walk-ins slow the process for everyone with appointments.
In-Person Inspections: If none of the above options work for your situation, adjusters will arrange a time to come inspect your vehicle at its location.
Rental Cars: We know availability is tight. Enterprise has 15 transport trucks loaded with vehicles arriving in the Springfield area within 24 to 48 hours, and Hertz is shipping in 100 vehicles as well. In the meantime, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are accepted under your rental coverage — the same daily and overall policy limits apply. Keep your receipts.
Glass Repairs: If your vehicle is a 2017 model year or newer, Safelite Solutions can replace up to three pieces of glass. Getting glass back in your car means you can keep driving it and save your rental coverage for when the vehicle goes into the shop for body work.
Thanks,
Jeff, Becky & Ashley
