According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), seven of the top 10 most costly catastrophes in the United States have been hurricanes, including many tragically memorable storms:
- Hurricane Katrina (August 2005)
- Hurricane Andrew (August 1992)
- Hurricane Sandy (October 2012)
- Hurricane Ike (September 2008)
- Hurricane Wilma (October 2005)
- Hurricane Charley (August 2004)
- Hurricane Ivan (September 2004)
There is no doubt that these huge storms can leave a shocking wake of damage, even as they move further inland and are downgraded to tropical storms. Homes, businesses, farms, churches, and even cities and counties suffer from the destruction, and entire regions may be rushing to submit their insurance claims and get on the road to recovery.
Hurricane Insurance Claims May Be Complicated by Questions About Coverage
Unlike other storms, however, hurricanes often present unique insurance coverage issues. There can be a lot of questions about insurance coverage for a hurricane, so it’s important to understand exactly how your hurricane policy covers damage from:
- The storm itself, including damage from high winds, heavy rain, flying debris, and downed trees.
- Flooding and storm surge after the storm, which can cause additional damage to vehicles, structures, interiors, and more.
- Thieves and vandalism, which may not be covered in some policies.
Unfortunately, even for policyholders who feel they have a good understanding of their coverage, insurance companies can be very motivated to limit the worth of hurricane claims. If you have questions about a hurricane insurance claim, or if you believe that your rights as a policyholder have been violated, don’t hesitate to reach out to our hurricane insurance claim lawyers at 1-888-614-7730.
Policyholders Sometimes Struggle With Insurance Companies Over Hurricane Insurance Claims
It’s important to remember that insurance companies are businesses that have an interest in protecting their bottom lines. While insurance companies aren’t deliberately out to hurt policyholders who have already been through an ordeal, there are times when insurance companies fight against paying the true worth of hurricane claims.
Additionally, when large or densely populated areas are affected, it can slow down claims, stretch contractors and adjusters thin, and open the potential for rushed estimations and underestimated claims that don’t take into account deeper damage.
Delays in resolution of a claim are frustrating, and any problems with a hurricane insurance claim can make settling for less look more inviting for policyholders after serious storm losses.
Understanding Time Limits for Property Damage Claims
How long does a policyholder have to file an insurance claim for hail damage? Although it’s a common question, it can be surprisingly difficult to answer. Find out more about the major factors that can affect time limits for filing a property damage claim.
An Experienced Attorney Can Help When You Can’t Get the Hurricane Recovery You Need
Although you may not need an attorney to help you with a claim, it is important to realize that help is available if you run into trouble or have experienced extreme losses in a hurricane. An experienced policyholder attorney can help you:
- Assess hurricane losses thoroughly and effectively.
- Prioritize needs throughout recovery.
- Determine potential sources of recovery.
- Help you plan for temporary and long-term repairs.
- Handle documentation and communication with the insurance company.
- Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
- Maximize your recovery.
- Fight unfair delays, denials, and underpayments.
Contact Our Hurricane Insurance Claim Lawyers Today
It shouldn’t have to be stressful to get the recovery you deserve from your insurance company. If you’re ready to get help with a difficult hurricane insurance claim, we encourage you to reach out to us at 1-888-614-7730. In a completely free case review, our attorneys can listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain more about your rights as a policyholder.