By Sarah Kuper
It was five years ago that Russell Greenhalgh realized the significance of his family’s business.
As an insurance agency, Greenhalgh Insurance dealt firsthand with the destruction of the April 27, 2011, tornadoes that touched down in Cahaba Heights.
“People often say they can’t stand insurance, but this was a time we were able to think, ‘This is why we are here,’” Greenhalgh said, “we are capable of really helping people.”
Although the agency’s building in Cahaba Heights was damaged, Greenhalgh said agents and staff continued to work for clients from their homes and cars.
“We found a way to transfer the phones to our homes and my wife was getting all the calls and we were filing claims with carriers even though we couldn’t be in the office,” Greenhalgh said.
Many roads in the area were impassable, but Greenhalgh said that with the help of a pick-up truck, they were able to go door to door to check on clients.
“It looked like a war zone. There were only a few ways to get around town without running into power lines and trees,” Greenhalgh said.
In total, the agency handled more than 400 claims related to the storm, amounting to more than $7 million in paid customer claims.
Greenhalgh said he is proud that all the agency’s clients were cared for despite the chaos caused by the tornado.
More so, Greenhalgh said he is proud of the resiliency of the Cahaba Heights community.
“Everyone’s attitude was, ‘I’ve survived the storm and property can be replaced.’ People were grateful and upbeat.”
Greenhalgh said the community’s spirit also can be seen in the way the neighborhoods have bounced back.
“You can tell where the tornado came through because there aren’t many trees, but otherwise the houses look great and the community is strong,” he said.
As tornado season continues, Greenhalgh said he hopes that people will be prepared for severe weather and that they will be wary if the storm causes damage that requires outside contractors.
“Protect yourself first of all. Do whatever you can to stay safe and protect your property until someone gets to you,” he said, “but watch out for repair companies or individuals who might take advantage of you.”
