Bartow, known as the “City of Oaks and Azaleas,” is the county seat and the second oldest city in Polk County. With a population of just over 20,000, Bartow combines the allure of history with an active calendar of events and festivals that attract both visitors and residents. Unfortunately, Hurricane Milton significantly damaged the area, leaving residents and officials to pick up the pieces.
As all Florida residents know, even the most thorough preparations cannot prevent damage from occurring when a hurricane is approaching. Although Bartow residents prepared for the storm to the best of their abilities, many still struggle with significant damage to their homes and businesses.
Florin|Roebig is a local Florida law firm with offices statewide, so we understand just how devastating hurricanes like Milton can be for homeowners in cities like Bartow.
If Hurricane Milton caused wind or water damage to your property, we want to help you get the compensation you deserve. The expert insurance dispute lawyers at Florin|Roebig have helped clients recover over $1 billion in compensation. We have decades of experience in fighting back against bad-faith insurance companies.
Effects of Hurricane Milton on Bartow
Hurricane Milton passed just south of Bartow late at night on October 9th, 2024. The storm downed trees, flooded roads, damaged buildings, and caused at least one death in Polk County. Of the 3 million Florida residents who lost power, over 200,000 lived in Polk County.
The Bartow area reported wind gusts up to 94 mph as the storm passed through overnight. Additionally, heavy rainfall–between 12 to 16 inches in some parts of the county–caused historic flooding in several areas of Bartow.
Intersections in Bartow where heavy flooding was reported include:
- 3800 block of Highway 98 South
- Bartow Road & Highway 98 South
- Highway 640 at Peace River Bridge & Highway 17
In addition to flooding, obstruction from storm debris and other hazards like downed power lines left road conditions in the area dangerous for several days following the storm. County officials requested that residents avoid all non-emergency driving.
Types of Damage Caused by Hurricane Milton in Bartow
Hurricanes like Milton are major storms that can cause significant and widespread damage, which is why Florida insurance claims are so common during hurricane season. Most of these claims stem from damage caused by high winds and flooding.
If you live in Bartow, your home or business may have sustained these common types of damage from Hurricane Milton:
- Broken and cracked windows
- Damage to your landscaping, including downed trees
- Interior or exterior water damage
- Roof damage, including damage to gutters, tiles, or shingles
Hurricanes can cause significant structural damage to your most valuable assets, causing property owners considerable stress.
If your home has been affected by Hurricane Milton but you are unsure of the extent of the damage, schedule a free consultation with one of Florin|Roebig’s experienced hurricane insurance dispute lawyers. We can help you arrange a free property damage inspection from an expert who can help you find and document even hidden or minor damage.
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What Types of Hurricane Milton Damage Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?
If, like many other residents of Bartow, you are trying to figure out what exactly your insurance policy covers, don’t panic. Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies with Florida hurricane coverage will cover any damage caused by wind or rain.
On the other hand, flood insurance must be purchased separately, and standard policies do not cover the often costly damages caused by flooding. If you live in a low-lying or flood-prone area, don’t wait for the next storm to come to look into flood insurance.
It can be difficult for policyholders to determine the precise cause of damage to their property after a storm. Never assume damage is not covered; always speak to a qualified professional first. Your policy may cover more than you think it does.
Florin|Roebig attorney Kavon Smith says, “It’s in the best interests of insurance companies to minimize the damage your property has suffered so they can avoid a larger payout. Before agreeing to any terms, always speak to an expert working for you, not your insurance company.”
How To Get Compensation for Bartow Property Damage After Hurricane Milton
The first step in finding out what compensation you are due after a Hurricane like Milton is carefully rereading your insurance policy. Next, contact an experienced hurricane damage attorney who can help streamline the claims process.
Because Hurricane Milton followed so closely after Hurricane Helene, many Bartow residents were still busy documenting prior damage when Milton made landfall. Unfortunately, many insurance companies will use situations like this to deny valid claims, cheating policyholders out of due compensation.
When insurance companies act in bad faith, having the support and guidance of skilled legal representation can make all the difference. The experienced team of personal injury and insurance lawyers at Florin|Roebig has been helping clients fight for compensation since 1985. Learn more now with a free case assessment.
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Contact A Bartow Hurricane Damage Insurance Claim Lawyer Today
It’s standard practice for insurance companies to attempt to minimize the value of your claim. Adjusters will often play hardball, undervaluing your payout to protect the insurance company’s interests.
Fortunately, you don’t have to play by their rules or submit to their aggressive tactics. If you suspect that your insurance is acting in bad faith, we want to help. Most Florin|Roebig clients contact our team when they realize their insurance company is not on their side.
If you live in Bartow and Hurricane Milton or Hurricane Helene damaged your property, our team of experienced insurance dispute lawyers is ready to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Florin|Roebig today to discuss your case or schedule a free evaluation.
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