Aransas Pass Wind Damage Insurance Claims

Categorized by weather professionals the “worst hurricane" to hit the United States in almost twelve years, Hurricane Harvey devastated Texas residents living along the Gulf Coast. The storm, which is already being touted as more catastrophic than Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, made landfall August 25 and wreaked havoc in Aransas Pass, leaving an estimated $150 to $180 billion of damage. State and federal agencies are scrambling to find ways to meet the expense of rebuilding the area. If you were among the many affected by the storm, you should speak with an Aransas Pass hurricane wind insurance claims lawyer for help.

As the fifth leading cause of damage to structures in America, storms like Hurricane Harvey left family and business owners with widespread property damage from high winds and flooding. The nature of a hurricane puts uneven pressure on buildings in its path, leading to the collapse of walls, roofs, and other structural elements. Once this happens, water surges add to the damage already done, and the standing water left after the storm subsides, combined with the time it takes to effect repairs, increases the possibility of mold.

Like most property owners in Aransas Pass, you likely purchased homeowner’s insurance to protect what for most people is their greatest investment. Your policy may cover expenses related to removing debris and even treating developing mold, but you might need to check if it covers wind damage. After a storm, time is the critical factor in filing an Aransas Pass wind damage insurance claim for your loss. The language of your insurance policy can be complicated, and it’s helpful to speak with an attorney who can explain what your policy covers.

You will no doubt make contact with your insurance carrier and speak with an adjuster about your Aransas Pass wind damage insurance claim, who will likely offer to guide you through the process. It’s also very likely they will speak to you with a compassionate and friendly tone. But make no mistake, your insurance adjuster is not your friend. Keep in mind that they work for the insurance company and its team of corporate lawyers who keep an eye on their profit margins. They will seek to settle with you in accordance with your policy, but they will also have in mind how it affects their bottom line.

Keep in mind as well that you will be seeking to recover your damages from your Aransas Pass wind damage insurance claim along with everyone else affected by the hurricane. The claims process is always trying on one’s patience, but it will be even more so in the weeks and months ahead. It would be in your best interest to speak with an attorney in Aransas Pass who can help you sort through everything you’ll need to consider.

There are also several things you can do that can help:

• If you haven’t yet, contact your insurance company to initiate the claims process.
• When it’s safe to return to your property, be sure to document your damage with photos and video.
• Keep track of any expenses you incur (e.g. lodging, travel, food).
• Before getting rid of damaged items, contact your insurance company.
• Maintain a journal of actions you take and expenses you incur.
• If available, enlist in your insurance company’s SMS/text messaging service to keep up to date on the status of your claim.

These are just a few things you can do to alleviate the stress of recovering from the devastation of a hurricane. We also want you to know that we’re here to help, as well.

Aransas Pass hurricane claims can leave you frustrated. The attorneys of Carabin Shaw have been through the storm before. Our experienced team of attorneys knows how to serve as an advocate for those who have suffered losses as the result of a hurricane. We will work with your insurance company to make sure they hold up their commitments to you as outlined in your homeowner’s policy.

Your first consultation with us is free of charge, and we work fully on a contingency based on what compensation we recover for you. If you live in Aransas Pass and would like to schedule an appointment either in person or over the phone with one of our lawyers, give us a call today at 361.717.4411 or toll-free at 800-862-1260.