Picking Up The Pieces After A Hurricane
Unfortunately, hurricanes are a very real threat to those of us living in Florida. The Tampa, Florida, trial attorneys at Burnett Law, P.A., are dedicated to making sure that if you have a dispute with your insurance company as a result of hurricane damage, we will fight to get you everything that you deserve.
Common Losses After A Hurricane
Hurricanes – and the damage that they cause – are a fact of life for all who live on or near the coast, especially for Floridians and throughout the Gulf Coast region. For those who have experienced these powerful storms, they know first hand how property is lost and lives are turned upside down. For some, hurricanes leave a wake of destruction and devastation that can take years to rebuild. While some structures can be rebuilt and property replaced, damage to a family’s memorable artifacts and sense of belonging is irreparable. At Burnett Law, P.A., we can help.
Common losses that families experience after a hurricane include:
- Loss of residence/home
- Loss of vehicle(s)
- Loss of personal property and clothing
- Lost wages due to cleanup and/or relocation
- Other significant losses
We concentrate our practice in property insurance law with a focus on hurricane- and storm-related claims.
Coverage for damage and losses caused by a hurricane might be covered under your homeowner’s policy. A skilled Florida hurricane claims attorney is best suited to review your insurance policies and determine what damage is covered and what damage is not. Also, did you know the following:
- Most homeowner insurance policies will cover damage from the hurricane that is attributable to heavy rainfall and high winds but will usually exclude damage from flood waters.
- Unless you have a separate flood insurance policy, damage caused by the storm surge or that is determined to be flood damage may not be covered.
- There may be loan and/or grant programs available to you if the hurricane is declared a disaster by state and/or federal authorities. These programs would provide assistance for any damage not covered by your insurance policies.
- Your auto insurance will typically cover any loss to your vehicles, especially if the policy has comprehensive coverage.
Typical Problems In Hurricane Claims
Filing a claim with your insurance company can be more stressful an experience than many anticipate, for several reasons:
- First come, first serve. Your insurance carrier is likely receiving claims from thousands of other hurricane victims besides yourself. The sooner you get your claim filed accurately with your insurer, the sooner the insurance company will typically act. If you delay in filing a claim, or if your claim is filed incorrectly, you may experience a significant delay in having your claim paid.
- Repairs may end up costing you. It is important that you do not perform too many permanent repairs or improvements to your house immediately after a hurricane. Your insurance adjuster will need to see the extent of the damage; otherwise, you may find you are not paid the full value of your loss.
- Deductibles. No matter which insurance carrier your policy is through, almost every policy requires the homeowner or the auto owner to pay a deductible on a claim. This typically ranges from $500 to $1,000. This amount would need to be paid prior to the insurance company paying for any of the repairs or losses.
Has your insurance company delayed or denied your legitimate claim? Was your home or boat damaged by a hurricane? Did your insurance company fail to pay the full value of your claim or refuse to reimburse you for your losses? At Burnett Law, P.A., we concentrate our practice in property insurance law with a focus on hurricane- and storm-related claims.
Our experienced trial attorneys have successfully represented clients in cases involving hurricane damage, toxic mold, fire and flood damage, and even sinkhole claims. At Burnett Law, P.A., our hurricane lawyers have successfully represented clients throughout the Tampa Bay area, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Lakeland, Bradenton and Sarasota. We represent clients throughout the states of Florida and Georgia affected by hurricanes.
Burnett Law, P.A., is a premier law firm dedicated to quality, personalized representation of individuals and businesses – never insurance companies. Honesty and integrity are first and foremost in our practice. We strive to accommodate the individual needs of our clients and work to ensure your complete satisfaction. We pride ourselves on being a well-respected and client-focused law firm. To learn more about how the Burnett Law, P.A., law firm can help you, contact us today for a free consultation.
Be Prepared With A Hurricane Evacuation Card
It is never a bad idea to plan ahead, especially when dealing with Mother Nature. Hurricanes and storms can take a turn in your direction very quickly. While most people know the basic necessities to have on hand in case of an emergency, how to protect your home and what information to gather may not always be a priority when protecting your life. In the unfortunate event of having to deal with property damage caused by a hurricane or flooding water, it is crucial to have the following items and information in order to start repairing your home quickly and worry-free.
.