More recently, Hurricane Ian caused severe flooding, wind damage, and untold suffering in Florida.
As the deadliest hurricane to hit Florida in 50 years, it will certainly cause millions (if not billions) in damage and leave thousands of Florida residents with terrible damage, injuries and loss of life.
Now, just days after Hurricane Ian, many residents are beginning the process of assessing flood damages, calling their insurance companies, and hoping they'll find someone to pay for these costs. can find a way out.
How do hurricane deductibles work?
In Florida, the state allows insurance companies to apply hurricane deductibles to homeowner's policies. In some coastal areas with high wind risk, insurers may require hurricane deductibles higher than the standard 5 percent.
Some states allow policyholders to choose higher hurricane deductibles to lower their premiums.
Whether or not a hurricane deductible applies to a claim depends on the specific benchmark chosen by your home insurance company or state insurance department.
If you think you have coverage on your home for hurricane risks, check a copy of your policy or call your insurance company to find out. You can also contact Dolman Law Group for assistance in reviewing your policy.
What is the difference between wind and hurricane coverage in Florida?
As a result of Florida's exposure to severe storms, many homeowner's insurance carriers now include a "wind" or "storm" deductible.
In fact, many insurance carriers slipped in changes to deductibles with little notice to policyholders. But what's the difference between a wind deductible and a hurricane deductible?
Hurricane deductible applies to damage caused by hurricanes. Some insurance companies include a specific mph wind speed, while others state that the storm National Weather Service must be specified byAs a result, this form is more attractive.
A wind deductible is more punitive than a hurricane deductible. The wind deduction applies to any wind damage and is not limited to storms that meet the hurricane definition or the special "miles-per-hour" wind speed requirement.
This form will incur a large out-of-pocket cost to the policyholder for any and all wind claims.
What About Florida Flood Coverage?
Flood insurance is offered through deferred government national flood insurance programs and policies are sold and managed by private insurance companies.
This means that your insurance company may pay for the removal of trees that fell during a storm, but they will not cover rain damage to your home. It is important to go over your insurance policy with your insurance professional who will ensure that your home is properly insured with the appropriate terms and conditions available in the market.
Is It Too Late to Buy Hurricane Coverage?
If you're thinking about getting coverage before a major storm, you're not alone. But keep in mind, it most likely won't turn out well for a noted storm. For example, flood insurance coverage doesn't go into effect until 30 days after purchase.
This waiting period is designed for the exact reason you think: to prevent people from getting expired and buying it when they think they'll need it. Insurance companies like to pay them for a few decades before they pay out.
For other coverages, such as wind and hurricane insurance, there are different waiting periods depending on the carrier. But there's little chance that any coverage bought now will cover you for a storm coming in the next few days.
What about car insurance for storm damage?
Comprehensive car insurance usually covers damage to your car caused by flood, hail and other severe weather. However, insurance carriers generally will not sell this type of new auto coverage if your area is on a hurricane watch or if severe weather is imminent.
It may be worth a shot though, so ask your insurer about adding comprehensive coverage to your car if you don't already have it.
of Hurricane Ian is
expected to cost Florida between $55 billion and $65 billion after everything is said and done. And if history is any indicator, it could be a lot more.
Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida, and unfortunately, the damage will continue to mount.
After becoming a tropical storm, Hurricane Ian reached a Category 4 hurricane level before making contact with Florida in Fort Myers and moving across the state.
Now the officials are assessing the damage. Chuck Watson, a disaster expert at Enki Research, said the storm could cause economic losses of up to $67 billion in the US.
In addition to damaging homes and infrastructure, the storm may have also destroyed crops and other industries.
The historic storm toppled the U.S., damaged infrastructure like roads and bridges, and wreaked havoc if on the everyday homeowner and business owner.
On Thursday, President Joe Biden declared a major disaster declaration for Florida, allowing additional federal aid to be given to the state. Biden vowed to help state and local officials as they assess the damage caused by Hurricane Ian.
He also said the federal government would bear the full cost of clearing the debris and rebuilding public buildings such as schools and fire stations.
The government will also provide assistance to people with destroyed or damaged houses.
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Dolman Law Group
There is no place like home and there are few situations more stressful than a devastating hurricane destroying your family safe haven Their coverage will protect them in the event of significant property damage. However, the claims process can sometimes be difficult, frustrating and frustrating.
If your claim is denied, the appeals process can be even more onerous; Usually the same insurance company that denied your claim will make the decision regarding the appeal.
The odds are stacked against the homeowner when a storm hits and damages happen. Experienced and competent representation can make a tremendous difference in a claims battle.
An experienced Florida hurricane attorney will understand how to protect you and ensure that you get the most out of your hurricane home insurance claim.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions.
Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA at (727) 451-6900
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