Kentuckians need adequate earthquake insurance

February is Earthquake Awareness Month and Kentucky Insurance Commissioner Sharon P. Clark advises consumers that having adequate insurance coverage is a critical component of being prepared for the financial impacts of an earthquake.

"Kentuckians may associate earthquakes with far Western Kentucky, but there is a risk present in other areas of the commonwealth. The New Madrid fault runs up parallel to the Ohio River even to Jefferson County, so the risk of damage is much less but there is still the possibility."

Because of the New Madrid fault, Kentucky is one of 16 states most at risk for earthquakes, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Standard homeowners' insurance policies generally do not cover earthquake damage, but consumers can purchase earthquake coverage as an enhancement to their existing policy. 

Coverage costs will vary depending on the home's structure, age, location, and the possible risk of an earthquake occurring in the area.