Lightning is one of the most unpredictable and dangerous weather phenomena. It can strike without warning, causing significant damage to property. According to a State Farm report, Texas is the No. 1 state for the cost of lightning claims in 2021. The insurance company paid up to $7.7 million to customers in Texas for lightning strike repairs with an average single claim reaching nearly $16,000. So, if you live in a state that's prone to lightning storms, make sure you have adequate coverage. Otherwise, you could be stuck with a major headache and a huge repair bill.
Being Proactive with Lightning
Insurance expert Gina Wilken explained that many homes are struck by lightning each year, causing significant damage that must be repaired. She noted that most standard insurance policies do not cover damage caused by lightning, so it is important for homeowners to check their policy and see if they are covered. If they are not, she recommends getting a rider on their policy to cover lightning damage. Wilken also advises people to take precautions to protect their home from lightning, such as installing a lightning rod or surge protector. By taking these steps, homeowners can help minimize the risk of damage from lightning strikes.
Being aware of the weather is the number one safety tip when it comes to lighting. Lightning can strike up to 15 miles away from a developing storm, so even if you don't see dark clouds, you could still be in danger. If you live in an area where lightning is common, consider installing a lightning rod on your home. This will draw the lightning to the rod instead of your house, which could save your home from damage or even fire. If you have active lighting going on around you, make sure to unplug all of your electronics as well. Electronics like TVs, computers, gaming systems, appliances are all potential hazards if lightning hits. Investing in surge-protected power strips is a good preventative measure that will give you peace of mind. With proper preparation, you can protect yourself and your property from the dangers of lightning.
When to Call an Attorney
A lightning strike can cause a home fire or other physical damage, but it can also cause an electrical surge, which can damage your appliances and electronics. A few safety measures can save you a lot of money and headaches. If you protect your home from lightning, you may not even know it’s been struck, but if your defenses are down, you could be looking at a hefty repair bill that insurance may not cover. Insurance policies typically exclude coverage for damage caused by an electrical surge, so it’s important to take steps to safeguard your home.
To ensure that you recoup the maximum amount of damages after you’ve been wrongly denied, you will need the services of an experienced attorney. Insurance law is notoriously complex, so your odds of succeeding if you go it alone are pretty low.
Luckily, lawyers who handle insurance tort claims work on a contingency basis. That means you only pay for their services after the case has been settled. The attorney fees will be subtracted from the damages you receive. And in some cases, the judgement may stipulate that the insurance company pay your attorney's fees and court costs.
With such high dollar amounts at stake, it’s more accurate to say that you can’t afford not to hire a bad-faith insurance lawyer.
If you find yourself at loggerheads with your Texas-based insurer, know that there is assistance available. Contact The Voss Law Firm, P.C. today to discuss your case, ask any questions you might have, and find out if you’re entitled to bad faith insurance damages.
