Mark Roman | October 25, 2024 | news
On October 9, 2024, Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, struck the west coast of Florida. It came just two weeks after Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm. Both hurricanes have caused tens of billions of dollars in estimated damages and resulted in more than 250 deaths so far across multiple states.
As Floridians continue to deal with the repercussions of both hurricanes, it is important to understand how to navigate the insurance claims process.
The Impact of Hurricane Milton
With sustained winds of up to 120 mph, Hurricane Milton caused severe damage to homes, businesses, schools, and other infrastructure. It has also caused at least 24 deaths in the state of Florida.
There were a number of risks during and after the storm, including:
- High winds
- Tornadoes
- Heavy rainfall
- Flooding
- Transportation hazards
- Evacuation challenges
- Damaged vehicles
- Wildlife and environmental impact
- Loss of electricity
Due to the extent of the potential issues with your property, you may be wondering what is involved in a property damage claim. Certain issues may be obvious (e.g., roof damage or downed trees); whereas others may be more difficult to detect (e.g., structural damage or plumbing issues). If you’re unsure what belongs to a property damage claim, you should reach out to a Florida property damage attorney.
Navigating the Insurance Claims Process After Hurricane Milton
Before filing an insurance claim, you should review your homeowners insurance policy, flood insurance policy, and other relevant policies. You should also document the damage to your property, which involves taking pictures and videos of your entire property and making a list of issues that you see. Taking these steps may make the insurance claims process easier for you.
Whether you are able to remain in your home or you have temporary living arrangements, you should start making the necessary repairs to your property. Make sure you keep all your receipts and other records of the repairs so that you can present this information to your insurer when you file an insurance claim.
Under Florida law, the deadline to file a property insurance claim is up to one year after the hurricane made landfall. Accordingly, it is in your interest to file a claim as soon as possible because if you miss the deadline, you may not be able to recover compensation from your insurer for your property damage.
Understand that in the wake of two hurricanes in quick succession, insurance companies will be overwhelmed with claims. If you don’t hear back from your insurer for a while, don’t be alarmed.
What You Should Do If Your Insurance Claim is Denied After Hurricane Milton
If your insurance claim is denied, it is understandable if you feel frustrated and angry. You can be reassured that there are options available to you.
Following the denial of a claim, you can ask your insurer to explain their reasoning. Insurers are obligated to provide specific reasons for denying claims.
You should be wary of bad faith practices. If your insurer’s reasoning seems vague, insufficient, or contrary to their stated policies, it would be a good idea to hire an attorney.
An attorney can help you draft a demand letter for your insurer. A demand letter typically includes details concerning the specifics of the property damage, injuries, a demand for compensation, legal justification, a deadline to respond, and a threat of legal action if your insurer doesn’t pay. A well-written demand letter could lay the groundwork for your insurer to reconsider their denial or engage in positive settlement negotiations, resulting in fair compensation for your property damage.
Contact Our Florida Personal Injury Law Firm of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with one of our Florida law offices. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 787-2500
