Birmingham Hurricane Damage Claim Lawyers
Handling complex insurance disputes arising from hurricane damage in Alabama
The aftermath of a hurricane can be devastating. Hurricanes leave a path of destruction, damaging homes, businesses, and infrastructure. While you're focused on picking up the pieces and rebuilding your life, dealing with your insurance company shouldn't add to your stress. If your insurance company denies your hurricane damage claim, offers inadequate compensation, or throws up bureaucratic roadblocks, don't hesitate to exercise your rights. At McWherter Scott & Bobbitt, our experienced Birmingham hurricane damage attorneys are here to help. We'll aggressively advocate for you and ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve to recover from this disaster.
How are hurricanes classified?
Hurricanes are classified based on their sustained wind speed using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. This scale assigns a category (from 1 to 5) based on wind speed, with higher categories indicating a more powerful and destructive storm:
- Category 1:Minimal hurricane (sustained winds 74-95 mph) – These cause minimal damage, primarily limited to damage to trees, power lines, and unsecured outdoor objects.
- Category 2:Moderate hurricane (sustained winds 96-110 mph) – Some structural damage can occur, particularly to roofing materials, windows, and doors.
- Category 3:Major hurricane (sustained winds 111-129 mph) – These storms cause significant damage, including downed trees and power lines, roof failures, and damage to some sturdy buildings.
- Category 4:Severe hurricane (sustained winds 130-156 mph) – Category 4 hurricanes cause extensive damage, including complete roof failures, structural damage to buildings, and downed power lines and trees.
- Category 5:Catastrophic hurricane (sustained winds over 157 mph) – These are the most powerful hurricanes and cause catastrophic damage. They can cause widespread roof failures, building collapses, and significant storm surge flooding.
It's important to note that wind speed is just one factor in a hurricane's destructive potential. Storm surges, heavy rainfall, and tornadoes associated with hurricanes can also cause significant damage.
Why should I choose your Birmingham hurricane claim dispute attorneys?
At McWherter Scott & Bobbitt, our hurricane damage attorneys are committed to assisting you in navigating the challenges associated with your hurricane insurance claim. Here's how we can help:
- Understanding policy coverage: We will review your insurance policy to determine the extent of your coverage for hurricane damage, including property damage, loss of personal belongings, additional living expenses, and more.
- Documenting damage: Our attorneys work with skilled professionals to accurately assess and document the full extent of hurricane damage to your property, ensuring that no damage is overlooked or undervalued.
- Negotiating with insurers: We will handle all communications and negotiations with your insurance company to advocate for fair compensation. Our goal is to maximize your settlement and resolve disputes over coverage, valuation, and claim denials promptly.
- Handling complex claims: Hurricanes can cause extensive damage, including structural damage, flooding, mold growth, and more. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in handling these complicated claims and can assist you in navigating the intricacies of your claim to ensure that all aspects of your losses are covered.
- Assisting with additional living expenses: If your home is uninhabitable due to hurricane damage, we can help you claim additional living expenses covered under your policy, such as temporary housing, meals, and transportation.
- Litigating your case: If necessary, our attorneys are prepared to represent you in court to resolve disputes with your insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected and advocating for a favorable outcome.
Don't let the aftermath of a hurricane and insurance disputes add to your stress. Contact our Birmingham hurricane damage attorneys today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you rebuild and recover with confidence.
What should I do after a hurricane?
In the aftermath of a hurricane, taking the right steps can significantly affect your insurance claim and potential disputes with your insurance company. Here's what you should do:
- Prioritize safety: Ensure your own and your loved ones' safety. If your home is severely damaged, evacuate immediately and seek shelter in a safe location.
- Document damage: As soon as it is safe to do so, document the damage to your property by taking photos or videos. If possible, make a detailed inventory of damaged or destroyed items, including their value and purchase date.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with a preliminary estimate of the damage and ask about your coverage, deductibles, and claim filing requirements. Our Birmingham hurricane damage attorneys can help with this process if you are unsure where to start.
- Review your policy: Along with your lawyer, review your insurance policy to understand your coverage, exclusions, deductibles, and filing deadlines. Pay close attention to any specific requirements or documentation needed to support your claim.
- Keep records: Maintain detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and correspondence. Note the date, time, and content of each conversation, as well as the names of the representatives you speak with.
- Seek legal help: The experienced insurance dispute attorneys at McWherter Scott & Bobbitt can assist you with your claim. Our attorneys can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with your insurance company, and advocate for your rights if disputes arise.
- Mitigate further damage: Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage to your property, such as covering broken windows or tarping damaged roofs. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs or mitigation efforts, as these costs may be covered under your policy.
- Be cautious with settlement offers: If your insurance company offers a settlement, ensure you consult with your attorney before accepting. We will work to ensure that the settlement amount is fair and adequately compensates you for your losses.
- Contact FEMA: Government agencies may offer financial assistance for repairs after a disaster.
By following these steps and seeking guidance from an experienced Birmingham insurance dispute attorney, you can protect your rights, maximize your claim, and work through the complexities of hurricane-related insurance disputes more effectively.
What are some common legal issues with hurricane claims?
Hurricane damage can be catastrophic, and unfortunately, dealing with insurance companies after such a disaster can be just as stressful. Potential issues can include:
- Exclusions:The insurance company might argue the specific cause of damage isn't covered by your policy. This could involve factors like storm surge flooding (often excluded) versus wind damage (typically covered).
- Pre-existing damage:They might claim the damage existed before the hurricane and deny coverage for repairs.
Even if they accept your claim, the offered compensation might be significantly lower than the actual cost of repairs and replacements. This could be due to:
- Disagreements on repair costs:The insurance company might propose lower-cost repairs or materials to minimize their payout.
- Incorrect valuations:They might undervalue your damaged property or belongings through depreciation or using inaccurate estimates.
The claims process can drag on due to a surge of claims after a hurricane. You might encounter:
- Excessive paperwork:The insurance company might bombard you with forms and requests for information.
- Long wait times:Getting in touch with an adjuster or getting a response can be slow and frustrating.
- Lack of communication:The insurance company might not provide clear explanations or updates on the status of your claim.
Even during repairs, disagreements can arise:
- Quality of repairs:The insurance company might push for subpar repairs that don't address the full extent of the damage.
- Approved repair costs:They might disagree with the repairs recommended by your contractor, claiming they are unnecessary or exceed their estimate.
These are just some of the common legal issues that can complicate hurricane damage claims. An experienced hurricane damage attorney can help you work through these issues successfully and fight for the fair compensation you deserve to rebuild your life after a hurricane.
Talk to our Birmingham, Alabama, hurricane damage claim lawyers today
In the aftermath of a hurricane, dealing with insurance claims can be a daunting and complex process. Don't let disputes with your insurance company add to your stress and uncertainty. At McWherter Scott & Bobbitt, our dedicated team of Birmingham hurricane damage attorneys is here to guide you through every step of the claims process, advocate for your rights, and ensure that you receive the fair and timely compensation you deserve. Don't wait — contact us today for a consultation, and let us be your trusted ally in securing the financial relief you need to rebuild your life. To schedule a meeting with an experienced lawyer, call our offices or fill out our contact form. Our attorneys are licensed in Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Mississippi and Missouri.