INDIANAPOLIS — As Independence Day celebrations kick off, the use of fireworks may increase in your area. The Indiana Department of Insurance is warning Hoosier homeowners and renters that accidental damage caused by fireworks that are banned in their counties may not be covered by their homeowners or renters insurance policies.
Many insurance policies contain provisions disclaiming coverage for illegal acts committed by the insured. However, consumers who experience property damage due to another person’s use of fireworks may be able to claim benefits under their homeowners or renters policy.
In 2017, according to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, 77 percent of all reported firework injuries occurred from July 1-7, and 39.5 percent of all firework injuries occurred on July 4. Firework use on private property accounted for 61.3 percent of reported injury cases.
State law notes that on holidays (Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day and New Year’s Eve), fireworks may be used between 9 a.m. and midnight. (You should check first with local officials.)
On June 29-July 3, fireworks may be used from 5 p.m. until two hours past sunset.
On July 4, fireworks may be used from 10 a.m. to midnight; and on July 5-July 9, from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset (Check with local officials to see when fireworks can be discharged as local ordinances may further restrict usage.)