Florida Hurricane and Storm Damage Lawyer
Florida, the state most impacted by hurricanes in the United States, faces significant challenges when storms hit. These natural disasters, whether large or small, often result in property damage, causing distress to homeowners and businesses alike. While insurance companies should provide compensation for such damages, some may deny valid claims or offer insufficient settlements. If you think your insurance company is not honoring your policy, contact Arias & Abbas Your Attorneys to speak with a Florida hurricane and storm damage lawyer.
Get started with a free consultation by calling (786) 530-4357 or sending an online message today.
Understanding Hurricane and Storm Damage
Hurricanes and storms in Florida bring about various forms of property damage that can wreak havoc on homes and businesses. Here’s a closer look at the types of damage they can cause:
- Wind Damage: These storms unleash powerful winds capable of tearing off roofs, shattering windows, and turning debris into dangerous projectiles. Just one strong gust can lead to structural damage.
- Water Damage: Heavy rainfall and harsh winds can result in leaks, leading to cosmetic issues like ceiling stains and structural problems like rot.
- Roof Damage: Hurricane winds and hail can cause roof damage, from lost shingles to trees falling on roofs, triggering interior leaks, structural instability, and mold growth.
- Flooding: Florida’s flat terrain makes it susceptible to rain and storm surges, which can result in floods, even from short-term situations, leading to mold growth and health concerns.
- Structural Damage: The sheer force of hurricanes can harm foundations, walls, and other structures, rendering properties uninhabitable for months after severe storms.
What to Do After Sustaining Property Damage
Knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in your recovery process in the aftermath of a hurricane or storm. Our Florida hurricane insurance lawyers suggest taking the following steps.
Ensure Safety First
Focus on your safety and the safety of your loved ones. If conditions are hazardous, evacuate the premises until it’s safe to return.
Document the Damage
Thoroughly document all visible damage to your property. Take photos and videos from several angles to provide clear evidence of the destruction.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with detailed information about the extent of the damage and follow their guidelines for filing a claim.
Mitigate Further Damage
Take immediate steps to prevent further damage to your property. This may include covering exposed areas, boarding windows, or shutting off utilities if necessary.
Preserve Evidence
Keep all records, receipts, and communication related to your property damage claim. This documentation will be useful when discussing your claim with your insurance company or attorney.
Taking these steps promptly can enhance your recovery and improve the chances of a successful insurance claim.
Insurance Claims: Denied, Delayed, or Underpaid In Bad Faith
Insurance companies should serve as a safety net during crises, but unfortunately, not all adhere to Florida’s hurricane insurance laws.
Claim Denials and Delays
Insurance companies often cite various reasons to deny or delay claims. They sometimes argue that the damage isn’t covered or that you didn’t meet certain conditions under the policy, but their favorite is stating that the damages are simply wear & tear.
Underpayment
Even after approving your claim, insurance companies may offer settlements far below what’s needed to cover the full extent of your losses. This can force you to dip into your own pocket to cover the gap.
Bad Faith Insurance Practices
The frustration intensifies when you suspect bad faith insurance practices. Your insurance company might act unfairly, unreasonably, or deceptively in handling claims. Bad faith can encompass claim denials without proper investigation, unjustified delays, or intentional underpayments.
How a Hurricane and Storm Damage Lawyer Can Help
Figuring out the insurance claims process can be a complex and frustrating ordeal. A skilled hurricane and storm damage lawyer is invaluable during this time.
They will know how to deal with the insurance company and fight hard for compensation.
Your lawyer may help with:
- Reviewing insurance policies,
- Investigating the claim,
- Negotiating the value of a claim, and
- Representing you during a lawsuit.
Most importantly, you will not be alone when you work with a hurricane and storm damage attorney in Florida. They will advise you through each step of this stressful process.
Contact a Florida Hurricane and Storm Damage Lawyer
Many attorneys offer to help with insurance claims, but only some have the experience of the team at Arias & Abbas Your Attorneys. We used to defend insurance companies, so we know how to negotiate with them during a claim dispute. Call our office at (786) 530-4357 or fill out our online form today to speak with a Florida hurricane damage lawyer.
We offer free, no-obligation consultations.
DISCLOSURE: Results are not guaranteed and vary on a case-by-case basis. This website and the information contained herein does not and is not purported to be legal advice. The information contained in our website may not be up to date, includes only a summary of Florida law, and it is for educational purposes only. Contact our office fora consultation or a licensed attorney in your state for specific information pertaining to your case. Please review our content and no legal advice Disclaimer, Privacy Policy, and Terms and Conditions.
