Mercury Insurance Fortifies Risk Mitigation Team Amid Growing Climate Risks

Mercury Insurance has appointed Steve Bennett as Senior Director of Climate and Catastrophe Science to lead a team focused on risk mitigation strategies in property and casualty insurance, particularly in regions vulnerable to catastrophic weather events.

This strategic move highlights Mercury's commitment to leveraging science-based approaches to enhance resilience and maintain insurance availability in high-risk areas impacted by climate-driven challenges. The appointement follows Mercury's recent efforts to write policies in regions where many insurers have withdrawn coverage, such as the town of Paradise, CA, which experienced devastating wildfires in 2018.

Mercury collaborates with homeowners, local governments, and organizations like the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety to implement zoning, construction, and mitigation measures aimed at reducing risk. The company utilizes detailed assessments involving geography, weather patterns, construction methods, and policy concentrations to tailor coverage responsibly without excluding entire zip codes.

Mercury's approach reflects a broader industry trend toward integrating mitigation investments and smarter rebuilding practices to foster a sustainable insurance market despite increasing climate-related risks. Bennett brings over 30 years of expertise in extreme weather and risk management, enhancing Mercury's capabilities in understanding and adapting to evolving climate threats. Mercury Insurance operates across multiple states offering various lines of personal and commercial insurance, maintaining high customer service standards and strong ratings in the industry.