On October 9, Hurricane Milton unleashed its full force on West Central Florida, bringing 120 mph sustained winds, a storm surge of 13 feet, and over 18 inches of rain. The storm claimed at least 17 lives and left 3.4 million people without electricity. Coming just two weeks after Hurricane Helene, the back-to-back storms compounded the destruction for many Florida residents.
Hurricanes leave significant damage in their wake, impacting homes, businesses, and personal property. This is where an experienced hurricane damage lawyer becomes an essential ally, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. After such a disaster, it’s critical to understand your legal options.
The Impact of Hurricane Milton on Bradenton
Hurricane Milton’s powerful winds and storm surge caused widespread devastation in Bradenton, leaving many properties damaged or destroyed. Roofs were torn off homes, downed trees damaged structures, and entire mobile homes were leveled. Power outages left residents in the dark for days, while standing water surrounded many homes, leading to further damage.
In addition to the loss of power, blocked roads and downed power lines made it difficult for people to begin cleanup efforts. Hardware stores saw long lines as residents scrambled for supplies to begin repairs. Sarasota Bradenton International Airport remains closed until October 16 due to storm damage.
What Are Your Options If Your Home Was Damaged By Hurricane Milton?
Bradenton residents experienced many different types of property damage as a result of Hurricane Milton, including:
- Roof and siding damage from high winds and flying debris
- Broken windows from wind and debris
- Damaged pool screens
- Flooding and water damage
- Fallen trees causing structural harm
- Appliance damage (e.g., refrigerators, TVs, washers)
- Vehicle and boat damage
As homeowners begin the recovery process, many wonder where to start.
According to Attorney Hal Weitzenfeld of Florin|Roebig, “If you’ve been impacted by Hurricane Milton, Helene, or both, it’s crucial to contact an experienced attorney for guidance. We’re here to ensure you receive the insurance payout you need to rebuild.”
First Steps After The Storm
- Document the Damage: As soon as it’s safe, document all damage to your property. Take photos and videos of everything, from broken windows to roof damage and water damage. Keep a detailed list of damaged belongings, including electronics and appliances. This documentation is vital when submitting your insurance claim.
- Make Temporary Repairs: After documenting the damage, make any necessary temporary repairs to prevent further harm. For example, you can board up windows or cover damaged roofs with tarps. Save all receipts for these repairs, as they may be reimbursed by your insurance company.
- File Your Insurance Claim: Once your property is secured, it’s time to file an insurance claim. This can be a complicated process, as policies may include specific language about what is covered. It’s important to thoroughly understand your coverage and ensure all required documentation is submitted.
- Seek Government Assistance: Local authorities in Bradenton and Manatee County can provide information on government disaster assistance programs like FEMA, which can offer additional recovery support.
On October 11, 2024, President Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Florida, making federal assistance available, including to Manatee County. These funds will help with recovery efforts in areas affected by Hurricane Milton.
How A Hurricane Damage Attorney Can Help
While many homeowners expect their insurance companies to act fairly, this is not always the case. If you’re facing delays, undervalued claims, or outright denials, hiring a hurricane damage attorney can make all the difference. An experienced attorney will handle negotiations, ensure your claim is fairly assessed, and fight to recover the compensation you deserve.
Experienced storm damage insurance claims experts can:
- Collect evidence such as detailed pictures and videos, repair estimates, and expert opinions, to support your claims.
- Speak insurance company language and negotiate the maximum compensation under your policy coverage for your Hurricane Milton damage.
- Take it to court if the insurance company refuses to cooperate.
Florin|Roebig is a Florida-based firm with extensive experience navigating Florida hurricanes and insurance company tactics, so we know exactly how to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Damages Can Hurricanes Like Milton Cause?
Hurricanes can cause significant destruction. Some damages are easy to see, while others are more difficult to assess on your own. Common types of hurricane-related damage include:
Wind Damage: High winds can tear off roofs, break windows, and damage siding. Trees may be uprooted, causing further damage.
Flooding: Heavy rains and storm surges can flood homes, weaken foundations, and destroy personal belongings. Mold growth is also a concern after flooding.
Structural Damage: Hurricanes can compromise the integrity of homes, causing collapsed roofs, cracked walls, and foundation issues.
Debris Damage: Flying debris can shatter windows and dent siding. Large debris can cause severe damage to homes and vehicles.
Power Outages: Prolonged outages can lead to secondary damage, such as spoiled food, broken appliances, and mold due to lack of air conditioning.
Our Featured Case Results
What to Do If Your Insurance Claim Is Denied
If your insurance company denies your claim, you still have options, including the following steps:
Review the Denial
Read the denial letter carefully to understand why your claim was rejected. Sometimes denials are due to missing information or misunderstandings.
Consult a Hurricane Damage Attorney
An experienced attorney can assess the denial, negotiate with the insurer, or file a lawsuit if necessary. Florin|Roebig Attorneys are ready to help with this process.
File an Appeal
In many cases, you can appeal a denied claim. Your attorney will help gather additional evidence to support your appeal.
Consider Legal Action
If your appeal is unsuccessful, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit to hold the insurer accountable and recover your rightful compensation.
Florin|Roebig attorney and Miami native Hal Weitzenfeld states, “Many people think that the insurance company has the final say on whether a claim is accepted or denied, but there are actually several options available to you as the policyholder. In these instances, it’s crucial to contact an experienced attorney for guidance and the best possible outcome.”
Steps for Filing an Insurance Claim After Hurricane Milton
Filing an insurance claim after a hurricane can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps will help ensure the process goes smoothly. First, as soon as it’s safe, report the damage to your insurance company to initiate the claims process. Be thorough in documenting everything, including photos, videos, and detailed lists of damaged items, to provide clear evidence of your losses. It’s equally important to save receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses, such as temporary repairs or hotel stays, as these can often be reimbursed by your insurer.
Act quickly when filing your claim, as many policies have strict deadlines, and submitting promptly will help avoid complications. To increase the chances of a successful outcome, consider hiring an attorney who can navigate the complexities of your claim. Having experienced legal representation, like Florin|Roebig Attorneys, can make a significant difference in ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers
How Florin|Roebig Attorneys Can Help
In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, many Bradenton residents are struggling to rebuild. If you’re dealing with a difficult insurance company or facing a denied claim, Florin|Roebig Attorneys are here for you. With decades of experience handling hurricane claims, we know how to navigate complex policies and fight for our clients’ rights.
Let Florin|Roebig assist you in securing the compensation you need to rebuild. With 40 years of courtroom experience and over $1 billion recovered for clients, we’re ready to help.
If you need assistance with your claim or have questions about your policy, contact Florin|Roebig today to learn more about our services or to schedule your free consultation.
- Fill out our online form anytime, and we’ll get back to you promptly.
- Call the phone number for your area 24/7.
- Use our online chat feature day or night.
