Each year, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) releases a list of names that will be used for tropical storms and hurricanes that form in the Atlantic basin. For 2022, the name Nicole is on that list. There is no way to say for certain whether or not Nicole will impact Florida — or if it will even be upgraded to a hurricane. However, in preparation for the ongoing 2022 hurricane season, we wanted to share some vital information about how an attorney can help you file a claim for damages to your home or business.
1-800-Injured is an attorney and medical referral service that can connect you with a lawyer for a free consultation about your hurricane claim.
Preparing for a Hurricane in Florida
Here are some tips on what to do before, during, and after the storm:
Before the storm:
- Stock up on supplies like food, water, and batteries.
- Charge your devices in case of power outages.
- Make sure your insurance policy is up to date.
- Take pictures or videos of your property, inside and out.
- Secure any loose items around your property.
- If you evacuate, make sure to take important documents with you.
During the storm:
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- Be very careful with candles — they’re a fire hazard.
- If you lose power, turn off your appliances to prevent a power surge when the power comes back on.
After the storm:
- Inspect your property for damage and take pictures or videos of any damage you find.
- Contact your insurance company to start the claims process.
- If your claim is denied, or you’re not getting the settlement you think you deserve, contact an attorney for help.
Filing an Insurance Claim After a Hurricane:
The insurance claim process can be confusing and frustrating, especially if you’ve never had to file a claim before.
Here are some things you can expect:
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage to your property. In addition to the inspection, you will need to provide proof of ownership for any damaged items. This can be in the form of receipts, pictures, or videos. You will also need to provide an estimate for the repair costs, and the insurance company likely requires that you get more than one estimate for the work needed.
Often, insurance companies have preferred contractors or repair services, so it is essential to be aware of this information as you begin the process.
Once you have gathered all of the necessary information, you will need to negotiate with your adjuster to come to an agreement on the repairs that will be covered and the settlement amount. If you are not able to come to an agreement, you may need to hire an attorney to help with your claim.
Contact 1-800-Injured for a Free Consultation with an Attorney
1-800-Injured is here to help you after Hurricane Nicole, or any other storm, by connecting you with a personal injury lawyer in Florida who can help you file a claim for damages. Call us today at 1-800-Injured or submit a request from our website for a free consultation.