People in the United States, especially those living in coastal areas, are aware of the destruction brought about by hurricanes. Most especially, the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma, Hurricane Maria, and Hurricane Harvey.
With these damages brought about by hurricanes, you must know the details about hurricane insurance claims, such as what it covers and does not cover. So let’s look at five things you should know about hurricane insurance claims.
● Know the right claims to make
When a hurricane occurs, the damages that occur after that are usually covered by several insurance claims. Since there are several insurance claims that hurricane damage brings, there might be issues when you want to file claims at once.
You might be dealing with several claims simultaneously while at the same time making plans on how to restore your financial stability, relocate or rebuild, and find how you can recover your valuables.
So, to avoid making mistakes, you can seek the assistance of a hurricane insurance claims lawyer for hire who will help you find out the right insurance claims you can make while you deal with other issues.
● Ensure you document everything
A common rule when dealing with any insurance claim is to document everything properly. And hurricane insurance claims are not left out. When you have sorted out your specific claim, you must document everything about the disaster through writing or video.
These details could include pictures showing the extent of the damage or the details of calls between you and your insurance agent. Ensure you have all the information your case needs since it increases your chances of success.
Your attorney will also help gather the proper evidence that would lead to recompensation. However, if you already have receipts from repairs you made and saved pictures showing damages, it will help improve your chances of obtaining the proper compensation.
● Ensure you immediately file with your insurance
When you want to start the process of filing an insurance claim, your first step should be to first get your policy number. If your policy insurance document was destroyed in the hurricane, your insurance company could still help you with the process. Insurance companies know the best approach to such issues, so they would bebop assistance.
Most insurance companies would travel to the area affected by the hurricane to find the damages. Some even visit the victims in shelters. However, this usually takes time. For this reason, you should ensure the safety of yourself and your family, then contact your insurance company.
Your insurance policy will determine what your policy covers if there is a time limit on any of your stated potential file claims and other details vital to your case.
● Most policies do not include damages from flooding
For most people, a severe problem with hurricane damages is that, except in some specific cases, the homeowner insurance policy does not cover water and flooding damages. So, if you already own a current mortgage, your insurance plan might cover some form of flood damage.
Sometimes, you might end up having to deal with other separate claims for wind and flood damages. So if you do not have flood insurance, it might be a good idea to tell your insurance company of the damages you sustained.
They might help you cover some of your damages. However, it is advisable to get flood insurance if you live in flood-prone or coastal areas. However, most insurance investments will fully cover your damages.
● Auto insurance policy covers flood insurance
You can rest assured if you own a comprehensive auto insurance policy. However, it is a different story if you do not own one. A comprehensive auto insurance policy will protect your car from damages not caused by accidents, and hurricanes and flooding fall into this category.
● Check if you qualify for state relief
You might be qualified for some relief from the state or federal disaster relief programs (FEMA). FEMA and other agencies usually relieve victims who are underinsured or uninsured. Also, the United States small business administration offers low-interest and long-term loans to business owners and individuals affected by hurricane disasters.
That’s A Wrap
You need to be aware of several details in every insurance policy. So, you must try to know what your insurance policy covers.
But if you live in areas prone to hurricane dusters, you might already be aware of such claims. Therefore, ensure you don’t make mistakes.
An excellent option will be to hire a public adjuster that will work for you since they prioritize their client’s interests.
