€9m in New Year's Damages

Accidents and vandalism during New Year's celebrations caused about €9 million in damages to private homes around the country, according to a national association of insurers. The damage estimate is similar to last year, and also includes problems triggered by fireworks. The sporadic rain helped keep a lid on the figure. The Netherlands saw similar weather a year earlier. Clockwise fltr garbage bins that fell victim to fireworks vandalism. Marjan Landstra photo So far, the association has only calculated damages to cars, homes, and outdoor furniture. Statisticians have not yet calculated the extent of vandalism to businesses, schools, and the costs associated with medical expenses. Medical bills are expected to push the numbers substantially higher, the association told AD.nl. Estimates were made based on a sample of insurance policy holders who have filed claims either online or over the phone.