Little Rock Earthquake Damage Claim Lawyers
Helping Arkansas policyholders facing coverage disputes for their earthquake claims
Earthquakes can strike suddenly and wreak havoc on properties, leaving homeowners and business owners grappling with extensive damage and financial losses. Dealing with insurance claims in the aftermath of such disasters can be daunting. At McWherter Scott & Bobbitt, our Little Rock earthquake damage claim lawyers bring decades of experience to the table, empowering you to assert your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. From understanding policy coverage to navigating complex claim procedures, we are here to provide clarity, advocacy, and peace of mind in the face of uncertainty after a damaging earthquake.
How are earthquakes measured?
An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of rock beneath the Earth's surface. Most earthquakes are not strong enough to be felt by humans, but large earthquakes can cause serious damage and loss of life.
Earthquakes are measured by a network of seismic stations that record the ground's movement, called a seismographic network. The primary instrument used to measure earthquakes is the seismograph, which produces a digital recording of the ground motion caused by seismic waves. This digital recording is called a seismogram.
There are two main ways to measure earthquakes:
- Magnitude: This refers to the size of the earthquake itself, based on the amount of energy released. The most common scale used today is the Moment Magnitude Scale (MMS). This scale considers the amount of displacement on the fault line and the area that slipped during the earthquake. An increase of one whole number on the magnitude scale reflects a tenfold increase in the ground motion.
- Intensity: This describes the effects of the earthquake at a specific location. The intensity scale considers factors like shaking strength and damage caused. A commonly used intensity scale is the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) This scale ranges from I (not felt) to XII (catastrophic damage).
Does Arkansas get a lot of earthquakes?
The New Madrid Fault Line, along the border of Missouri, Tennessee, and Arkansas, is 120 miles long and ends in northeast Arkansas.
Per the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management:
You may not think of earthquakes when listing the natural hazards in Arkansas, but in 1811 -1822, the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) produced three of the largest earthquakes ever experienced in the continental United States. The series of earthquakes dramatically affected the landscape and even altered the flow of the Mississippi River. People on the East Coast of the United States felt shaking, and church bells reportedly rang as far away as South Carolina.
They note that the seismic zone is still active, causing about 200 small earthquakes every year. Scientists believe it’s only a matter of time before a large earthquake strikes the area again.
AllQuakes notes that in 2023, Arkansas had 80 earthquakes of magnitudes up to 4.0:
- 0 quakes above magnitude 4
- 3 quakes between magnitude 3 and 4
- 39 quakes between magnitude 2 and 3
- 38 quakes below magnitude 2 that people normally don't feel
How can your Little Rock earthquake damage claim lawyers help?
Our Little Rock earthquake insurance dispute lawyers specialize in assisting individuals and businesses who have suffered losses due to earthquakes. Here's how we can help:
- Legal expertise: We are well-versed at interpreting insurance policies that include coverages for earthquake damage claims. We can guide you on your rights and legal options.
- Claim assessment: Our lawyers can help assess the extent of your damages and determine the potential value of your claim. We may work with experts such as engineers to evaluate structural damage and estimate repair costs.
- Documentation and evidence: Our lawyers can assist in gathering the necessary documentation and evidence to support your claim. This may include photos, repair estimates, insurance policies, and other relevant paperwork.
- Negotiation: We can negotiate with insurance companies or other parties involved to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. This may involve advocating for you during settlement discussions or mediation.
- Litigation: If necessary, our earthquake damage claim lawyers can represent you in court. We can file a lawsuit on your behalf and navigate the legal process, including pre-trial motions, discovery, and trial proceedings.
- Appeals: In cases where claims are denied or disputed, we can assist in filing appeals and advocating for your rights in appellate court.
- Legal protection: Having a lawyer on your side provides protection against potential legal pitfalls and ensures that your rights are safeguarded throughout the claims process.
By handling the legal aspects of your earthquake damage claim, our lawyers can alleviate stress and uncertainty, allowing you to focus on rebuilding and recovery.
What types of damage do earthquakes cause in Arkansas?
When earthquakes happen, they can cause various types of damage, although the severity of the damage will depend on factors such as the magnitude of the earthquake, the depth of its epicenter, its proximity to populated areas, and the construction standards of buildings and infrastructure. Here are some types of damages that earthquakes can cause in Arkansas:
- Structural damage: Earthquakes can cause damage to buildings, homes, bridges, and other structures. This damage may range from minor cracks in walls or foundations to more severe structural failures.
- Foundation problems: The shaking of the ground during an earthquake can lead to shifts in soil and cause damage to building foundations. This can result in structural instability and compromised integrity.
- Building collapse: Older buildings constructed with unreinforced materials are particularly vulnerable to earthquake damage. These structures may experience partial or complete collapse during seismic events.
- Damage to utilities: Earthquakes can disrupt water, gas, and electrical services, leading to leaks, outages, and potential hazards such as fires or explosions.
- Property damage: Inside buildings, earthquakes can cause damage to contents such as furniture, appliances, and personal belongings. These items may be displaced, broken, or otherwise affected by the shaking.
- Secondary hazards: Earthquakes can trigger secondary hazards such as aftershocks and fires, which can cause further damage.
While Arkansas may not experience earthquakes as frequently or intensely as some other regions, it's still important for residents and property owners to be aware of the potential risks and take measures to mitigate damage and ensure safety in the event of seismic activity.
What to do after an earthquake in Little Rock
Here's what you should do following an earthquake in Little Rock:
During the earthquake
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On:If you're indoors, find a sturdy cover (like a desk or table) and hold on until the shaking stops. Stay away from windows, mirrors, and bookcases that could shatter and injure you.
- If you can't drop and cover:Get on the ground next to an interior wall (away from windows) and shield your head and neck with your arms.
After the earthquake
- Check for injuries:Tend to yourself and others who may be injured. Call 911 for immediate medical assistance if needed.
- Be aware of aftershocks:These smaller earthquakes are common after a larger quake. Be prepared to drop, cover, and hold on again.
- Evacuate if necessary:If you smell gas, see sparking electrical wires, or suspect structural damage to your home, evacuate immediately. Listen to local authorities for instructions.
- Check for damage:Once it's safe to do so, assess the damage to your home or building. Look for cracks in walls, leaking gas or water lines, and any other potential hazards.
- Turn off utilities:If you suspect damage to your electrical or gas lines, shut them off at the main valve or switch if you can do so safely or contact a licensed professional.
- Take pictures and document damage:Take photos or videos of the damage to your property for insurance purposes.
- Contact your insurance company:Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Our Little Rock earthquake damage attorneys can help with this if needed.
- Stay informed:Listen to local radio or TV broadcasts for updates and instructions from emergency responders.
- Don't use open flames:A gas leak could be ignited by a spark, so avoid using candles, lighters, or grills until you're sure there's no leak.
Remember, staying calm and following these steps can help keep you safe after an earthquake.
Your advocates when you are affected by an earthquake in Little Rock, Arkansas
Are you struggling to recover from earthquake damage? At McWherter Scott & Bobbitt, our team of dedicated Little Rock insurance dispute attorneys is here to provide the legal assistance you need. With decades of combined experience, we help individuals and businesses work through the complexities of earthquake damage claims. From assessing the extent of your losses to negotiating with insurance companies and advocating for your rights in court if necessary, we're committed to maximizing your compensation and helping you rebuild. Don't face the aftermath of an earthquake alone — contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward securing the assistance you deserve. To schedule a meeting with a skilled attorney, call our offices or fill out our contact form. Our attorneys are licensed in Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Mississippi and Missouri.