Insurance may not cover violators of fireworks ban

Fourth of July enthusiasts who ignite personal fireworks despite bans in their counties may not be covered by insurance if their fireworks cause any damage.

Indiana Insurance Commissioner Stephen Robertson says many insurance policies deny coverage for illegal acts committed by the person insured. Robertson says anyone who accidentally sets fire to his own property or that of a neighbor while shooting off fireworks may not be able to submit an insurance claim.

However, he says that anyone who is injured or whose property is damaged by fireworks set off by another person may still be able to collect.

Several Indiana counties have declared emergencies that ban fireworks because a lingering drought has left lawns and fields tinder-dry.