Hurricane Helene: What If My Insurer Denies My Claim?

 Posted on October 09, 2024 in Personal Injury

Hurricane Helene ripped through Florida and the southeast U.S. in late September, causing devastating property damage and loss of life. Businesses, homes, vehicles, and other properties throughout the affected areas require extensive repairs, and many are too damaged to salvage. Most Floridians carry hurricane insurance policies due to the state’s frequently dangerous weather.

As Floridians begin to assess their losses and file insurance claims, there is a lot that can go wrong. Is your insurance carrier refusing to pay the total value of your claim? Are they denying your claim outright? An experienced Fort Lauderdale property damage insurance attorney can help.

What Kinds of Damage Did Hurricane Helene Cause?

Making landfall as a Category 4 hurricane, Helene left Florida and other states reeling from her onslaught. The wind, flood, and fire damage she caused was extensive, leaving Florida property owners without homes to live in and businesses to operate.

140 MPH Winds

At some points, Helene’s wind speed reached 140 mph. These powerful winds broke windows, tore down trees, threw debris and cars, and compromised roofs and structures. Some properties were totally destroyed.

Flooding

Storm surges and torrential rain caused flooding of "biblical proportions." It has been estimated that Helene dumped over 40 trillion gallons of rain on the Southern U.S. Flooding can destroy drywall and floors, often weakening foundations. Flooded properties also are likely to develop mold, which can cause illness.

Fires

Electrical fires often result from lines being submersed in water, downed power lines, or an electrical service junction being forcibly ripped from a structure. Lightning strikes can also cause fires.

How Do Insurers Attempt To Avoid Paying Hurricane Property Damage Claims?

When you purchase insurance policies and pay premiums, you expect the carrier to live up to its obligation to pay claims fairly. Unfortunately, this rarely happens, no matter what kind of policy you have. Insurers might:

• Say that your damage was not caused by a covered peril
• Deny your claim
• Delay inspecting your damaged property and making payment on your claim
• Offer intentionally low payouts that will not cover all of your eligible expenses

Our founder, Attorney John Ameen, used to represent insurance companies, so he has first-hand knowledge of the many ways insurers may try to take advantage of claimants. He will use that knowledge to combat these tactics effectively to help you get the payout you deserve.

Call Our Determined Broward County, FL Hurricane Helene Property Damage Insurance Dispute Lawyers

You need to be rebuilding after Hurricane Helene, not fighting with your insurance company. Let The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A. handle your claim or disputes to get the financial compensation you deserve. Call 800-555-4011 for your free consultation with our knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale, FL hurricane insurance attorneys.