Hurricane Damage Claims Attorney in Hammond

When a hurricane strikes, it can leave behind a trail of destruction that can be overwhelming for homeowners and business owners alike. In such situations, insurance policies can provide a much-needed safety net to help recover from the damages caused by the storm.

However, filing an insurance claim for hurricane damage can be a complex and daunting process. Insurance companies may deny, delay, or undervalue claims, leaving policyholders in a vulnerable position. This is where a Hammond hurricane damage claims attorney at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys can help. 

Continue reading below to learn more about common questions and concerns connected with hurricanes in Hammond.

What to Do if Your Home is Damaged in a Hurricane

First, in order to prevent anyone in your family from getting sick or hurt because of contaminated food, water, structures, or facilities, it’s important to take care of your basic physical needs. Then, you can take steps to protect your property from further damage by having professional contractors, inspectors, or appraisers review the extent of the damages.

In order to determine your coverage and the conditions of your insurance, you should then speak with a hurricane claims attorney who can look over your policy and send a notice to the insurance agency about your damages. Doing this on your own can possibly hurt your ability to file a successful hurricane insurance claim

How Long Do I Have to File a Hurricane Claim in Louisiana?

Many hurricane victims have no clue how long they have to file a hurricane claim. In Louisiana,  property owners have 180 days from the catastrophic event to submit a hurricane insurance claim, as per Louisiana law. It’s a good idea to start the procedure as soon as you can, even though you have almost six months so that your hurricane claims attorney can help you gain the compensation you deserve sooner rather than later.

Common Types of Hurricane Damage

Hurricanes are extremely violent storms that can cause substantial damage to your home and property. High gusts, heavy rains, and potential flooding can all add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage. Some of the most common hurricane damages include:

• Equipment damage 
• Roof damage 
• Utility damage 
• Structural and foundation damage
• Interior damage 

A thorough hurricane season preparation is the best approach to help avoid these damages. However, keep in mind that even with all the preparation, a hurricane can still significantly harm your home, property, and livelihood. 

As a homeowner or business owner who experienced property damage in a storm, you may wonder whether you need to involve an attorney. Every case is different, and whether you need an attorney’s help will depend on your unique situation. However, we can offer a few helpful tips to know when you might need to seek counsel.

Common Hurricane FAQs Worth Noting:

Should I Turn Off My Air Conditioner During a Hurricane?

It’s recommended to turn off your air conditioner during a hurricane if you plan to evacuate your home or if there is a risk of flooding. 

If you decide to stay in your home during the hurricane, you should turn off your air conditioner only if the wind speeds exceed the safe operating limits of your unit. High winds can damage your air conditioner’s components and cause debris to enter your home through the air ducts.

How to Secure Boat on Lift During Hurricane: What You Need to Know?

To secure your boat on a lift during a hurricane, it’s best to remove it from the lift and store it on land. If this isn’t possible, you should lower the boat as close to the water as possible and secure it with properly rated straps or chains. 

You should also ensure that any loose objects, such as canvas covers or sails, are removed and stowed safely. If you cannot remove your boat from the lift, you should consult with a professional marina or boatyard to ensure it is secured correctly.

How Can I Tell If I Have Hurricane Windows?

Hurricane windows are designed to withstand high winds and impact from flying debris. To determine if your windows are hurricane resistant, look for a label or etching that indicates they meet local building code requirements for hurricane protection. This label may be located on the window frame or glass. You can also consult with a local building inspector or window installer to determine if your windows meet the necessary standards.

Does Boat Insurance Cover Hurricane Damage?

Boat insurance policies typically provide coverage for damage caused by hurricanes, as long as the policy includes coverage for wind and water damage. However, it’s important to review your policy carefully to determine the specific coverage limits and exclusions that may apply. You should also ensure that your boat insurance policy is up to date and that you have adequate coverage for the value of your vessel.

Call Gordon to Get Help with Your Hurricane Damage Claim!

If you, unfortunately, experienced damage from a hurricane and need help with your claim, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our Hammond hurricane damage claim attorneys at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys. We acknowledge the pain and suffering you may be experiencing and are here to help you through this difficult time.

Call us now for a FREE consultation. Our team of Hammond Hurricane damage claim lawyers will do anything they can to give you the best possible outcome.