According to the National Weather Service, Louisiana is hit by a hurricane every 2.8 years. Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June 1 to November 30, however, a storm can still develop outside of that time frame. Hurricanes can cause extensive damage due to high winds, storm surge flooding, heavy rainfall, and high surf. Depending on the category of the hurricane, winds can reach speeds of 75 mph up to 157 mph or more and can cause the sea level to rise 20 feet or more due to storm surges.
Just one hurricane can cause damage to thousands of homes and businesses. Hurricane Francine, which made landfall in Terrebonne Parish on September 11th, 2024, as a Category 2 hurricane, is a recent example of the extensive damage that hurricanes can cause. If you are a resident of Louisiana and have been affected by a hurricane you may be eligible to file a claim through your insurance, and Morris Bart can help. To get started today and learn more about your options, call us at (504) 613-4771 or contact us online to set up a free consultation with one of our experienced hurricane claims attorneys.
How Our Louisiana Hurricane Lawyers Can Help
At Morris Bart, we are committed to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve so that they can rebuild their homes, businesses, and lives after a hurricane. With over 40 years of experience, our attorneys are equipped with the legal knowledge and resources needed to hold your insurance company accountable and get you the compensation you deserve.
What Damages Can I Receive Compensation For Following A Hurricane?
Hurricanes cause extremely dangerous conditions. Generally, during and after the storm, there are high winds, flying debris, flooding, and more, all of which can cause extensive property damage. The following is a list of the most common types of damages that may be covered by your insurance policy
- Structural damage: high wind speeds and flying debris can cause structural damage to your home or business.
- Broken windows: even boarded or shuttered windows may be damaged by flying debris, falling trees, or strong enough winds.
- Roof damage: the high winds that accompany a hurricane can strain a building’s roof and cause portions of roofing to be torn off.
- Flooding: your property may be subject to flooding from storm surges, low elevation, or poor drainage. Once the water recedes or drains, there may be water damage, mold, and mildew.
- Damaged doors: the high winds from a hurricane can create a pull on your property’s doors. Garage doors may be particularly susceptible due to their large surface area, and sliding glass doors may be shattered by flying debris.
- Contents damage: depending on the extent of the damage to the exterior of your property, the contents of your property may have also undergone damage. This type of damage may also be covered under your policy.
If your property was damaged by any of the damages listed above, or even by something not listed, you likely have a claim. Contact the hurricane claim attorneys of Morris Bart today for more information on how to get started.
What To Do If You Have Been Affected By A Hurricane
If you have been affected by a hurricane, you likely feel overwhelmed with all you have to do. Aside from cleaning up the damage you will need to document the damage for proof and file a claim with your insurance. This process can be difficult, especially considering all you’ve been through, but it is important to act quickly to protect your property and legal rights. You don’t have to do it alone, though. The attorneys of Morris Bart are here to help you through the process of filing your claim.
So what steps should you take after the hurricane has passed?
Take Preventative Measures To Mitigate Further Damage
The first thing you should do when you get back to your property is to assess the damage and take preventative measures to mitigate any further damage to your property. If and when it is safe to do so, you can do things like:
- Apply a tarp to broken areas of the structure or over a damaged roof to prevent further water damage
- Board up broken windows to reduce your property’s exposure to the elements
Taking preventative measures can keep your insurance company from denying your claim by citing additional damage after the fact.
Document The Damage Your Property Sustained
Take stock of the damage to your property and personal items and document it with photo and video evidence. Additionally, create a list to keep track of all damaged items, this will help you document the full extent of your losses and be sure you are not forgetting anything of value. The documentation of damage will help you in negotiations with your insurance by serving as evidence of your losses.
Review Your Damages With An Experienced Legal Professional
Work with an experienced attorney to determine the full extent and value of the damages you sustained. They will be able to help you to understand your legal rights and options and assist you in properly evaluating and filing a claim with your insurance. With an experienced lawyer on your side, you can rest assured that they will hold your insurance company accountable and fight for your maximum possible compensation.
What To Do If Your Business Is Damaged By A Hurricane
If your business has been damaged by a hurricane, be sure to follow the steps listed above, in addition to contacting your business insurance. The experienced attorneys of Morris Bart are skilled in handling commercial hurricane claims and we are standing by ready to help business owners get the compensation they deserve.
It is important to note that, depending on your insurance policy, you may also be eligible for business interruption compensation. Contact our team today for assistance.
Let Morris Bart Handle Your Louisiana Hurricane Insurance Claim
If your home or business in Louisiana has been damaged by a hurricane, Morris Bart can help you get the compensation you deserve. We understand the challenges you are facing and can help you understand your legal rights and hold your insurance company accountable. Our team of experienced attorneys is not afraid to fight for the maximum possible compensation you need to repair your home or business. Get started with a free consultation today by calling us at (504) 613-4771 or contacting us online.
