The Argus Group said today that claims for damage to cars and bikes related to the two big storms that hit Bermuda last month will not affect its customers’ no-claims discounts.

The Island was hit by Tropical Storm Fay and Hurricane Gonzalo within the space of week in mid-October. Argus — along with fellow insurer BF&M Ltd — has already declared that property insurance policyholders will pay only one deductible on claims related to damage from the two events.

Argus chief executive officer Alison Hill said: “In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Fay and Hurricane Gonzalo, our focus has been on helping our customers recover from damages sustained in the storms. In line with our company’s mission ‘our interest is you’, we offer our bike and car customers who sustained damages to their vehicles the benefit of retaining the No Claims Discount upon renewal of their policies.

“We are thankful for our loyal customers and when we’re able to go that extra mile to assist our customers, we are happy to do so.”

In a press release today, Argus stated that the “No Claims Discount (NCD) scale, the level of reduction in premium offered to customers who have not filed a claim in a set period of time, will not be reduced for the bike and car policyholders who have filed a valid claim for damage caused by windstorm during Tropical Storm Fay or Hurricane Gonzalo.

“In a gesture to alleviate financial stress for its clients, Argus will extend the opportunity for existing bike and car insurance customers to enjoy their current rates when they renew, even if they’ve filed claims related to either of the recent storms.

“In addition, Argus is extending this offer to applicants who wish to bring their car or bike insurance to Argus for the first time.

“The maximum NCD is 65 percent and if there is a claim during the insurance year the discount is reduced to 50 percent at renewal. This standard discount reduction is being waived for Argus bike and car customers who have filed storm-related claims and renew their current policy.”

Argus customers affected by this policy have been sent notification. If there are any questions, customers are encouraged to call Customer Service at 298-0888 or e-mail insurance@argus.bm.