Hurricanes in the Tampa area have reached the lowest number of storms big enough to receive a name in more than 100 years. It has been 10 years since a hurricane reached Florida and caused major widespread damage. Forecasters predict that the upcoming season may be quiet as well, though experts warn against complacence as the area could potentially see a large storm at some point in the future.
Hurricane Wilma, the large and powerful storm that hit the state in 2005, killed five people. It also did more than $20 billion in damage to property. There have been no storms of that size since then. The National Hurricane Center’s archives show that there has not been such a long stretch of time between devastating hurricanes since their records indicate in the early 1850s.
Damage claims to insurers in the event of a powerful storm can reach such high dollar amounts in payments that some companies choose not to insure property in storm-ridden areas to reduce their risk of loss. Florida has a state-sponsored insurer that covers residents living in high-risk areas that are unable to purchase insurance from a private company. The recent lack of storm activity has brought insurers to the state once again, creating competition and lowering the need for residents to rely on the state insurer, Citizens Property Insurance Corp.
In the event that a large storm does reach Florida, property owners will need to have their claims answered in a timely manner, allowing them to return their properties to a pre-storm condition. When hurricane damage causes extensive harm to insured persons and their property, policy owners may want to seek the help of an attorney before filing a claim.
Has Your Home Insurance Company Denied Or Undervalued Your Property Damage Claim In Florida?
If your insurance company is dragging their feet regarding your property damage claim you should speak with an experienced insurance claim lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Florida law office directly at 800.451.6786 to schedule your free consultation. We help Florida residents just like you fight the big insurance companies who fail to abide by their own policies. Remember, we work on a contingent basis, meaning you don't pay us anything until we win your case.