Which earthquake led to findings that influenced new regulations for earthquake insurance?

The Northridge earthquake, which struck on January 17, 1994, was a pivotal event that highlighted weaknesses in existing earthquake insurance policies and building regulations. The earthquake had a magnitude of 6.7 and caused significant damage primarily in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles. The aftermath revealed that many buildings sustained severe damage that was not adequately covered by standard insurance policies.

As a result, the Northridge earthquake prompted insurers and regulators to reevaluate the frameworks around earthquake coverage. In particular, it led to the introduction of stricter building codes and encouraged the development of more comprehensive earthquake insurance policies that better addressed the risks exposed by the earthquake. The losses incurred also influenced the financial practices of insurance companies and spurred legislative changes to ensure more robust earthquake preparedness and risk management in California.

The other earthquakes, while significant in their own right, did not have the same level of impact on insurance regulations as Northridge did. The lessons learned from the damages and insurance claims resulting from the Northridge event were crucial in shaping policies aimed at better protecting residents and properties against future seismic activities.