Hurricane Season 2023
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that the 2023 season will have 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. Although the forecast suggests a slightly below-average season, it is essential to remember that hurricanes can be unpredictable. In 2020, there were 30 named storms, which shattered the previous record of 28 named storms set in 2005. Therefore, preparation and planning are critical. NOAA also warns that while the 2023 season may be slightly below average, there is an increased risk of hurricanes due to upper-level winds. These winds flow from west to east and can disrupt hurricane formation. If these winds weaken or shift, however, it can increase the likelihood of hurricanes forming in the Atlantic basin.Have a Plan in Place
Having a plan in place before hurricane season is critical. Homeowners should ensure their insurance policies are up to date and cover damages caused by hurricanes. They should also review their policies to understand what is covered and what is not, including deductibles and limits of coverage. Creating an inventory of their belongings and storing important documents in a safe place is also a wise idea in case a claim needs to be filed.Insurance
Flood insurance is also necessary if homeowners live in flood-prone areas. Homeowners’ insurance policies usually do not cover flood damage, so separate coverage is necessary. Flood insurance takes 30 days to go into effect, so waiting until a hurricane is on its way to obtain coverage is ill-advised. In the event of a hurricane, taking pictures of the damage before beginning the cleanup process is essential. Documenting the damage will be critical when filing a claim. Making temporary repairs to prevent further damage is also crucial. For example, if the roof is damaged, covering it with a tarp can prevent water from entering the home. Understanding the claims process is crucial when filing a property damage claim. Homeowners should contact their insurance company as soon as possible and provide them with the necessary information. The insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the amount of compensation the homeowner is entitled to. Being honest and providing as much information as possible when filing the claim is critical. Unfortunately, some insurance companies may not provide homeowners with the compensation they are entitled to, or they may deny the claim entirely. If this occurs, homeowners may need to seek legal assistance. Working with a lawyer can help ensure that homeowners receive the compensation they deserve.Additional Help with the Claims Process
A lawyer who specializes in hurricane property damage claims can help homeowners navigate the claims process and understand their rights. They can help ensure that homeowners receive the compensation they are entitled to for property damage, lost income, and other damages. Lawyers can also help homeowners deal with insurance companies that may be reluctant to pay or underpay for damages.Conclusion
In conclusion, hurricane season can be a stressful time for homeowners in coastal cities like New Orleans. Being prepared and informed is critical when it comes to filing property damage claims after a hurricane. Reviewing insurance policies, creating an inventory, and understanding the claims process are necessary steps to take. If homeowners encounter issues with their insurance companies, seeking legal help can be beneficial. The lawyers at Arnona Rose are experienced in hurricane property damage claims and can help homeowners get the compensation they deserve.About the Author
Toni R. Arnona, Esq. is a partner at Arnona Rose, LLC, a personal injury firm in the Greater New Orleans area. A New Orleans native, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in French and Linguistics from Newcomb College at Tulane University and her Juris Doctor from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law in 2009. She was admitted to the Louisiana Bar that same year, after interning with Judge Robin M. Giarrusso and later clerking for Judge Lloyd J. Medley, Jr. in the Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans. Toni joined Arnona Rose in 2014, where she focuses her practice on personal injury and related matters. She is a member of the American Bar Association, the Louisiana Bar Association, the Jefferson Parish Bar Association, and the Federal Bar Association.
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