Hurricane Insurance Litigation: When to File a Lawsuit
When a hurricane damages your home, your homeowners’ insurance policy should help you cover the cost of repairs or replacements. But that doesn’t mean filing a claim will be straightforward. Remember, insurance providers are in the business to make money and this often leads to issues that you can’t handle on your own. When you feel stuck, it’s possible to sue your provider with the help of a Louisiana hurricane insurance litigation attorney. But before you schedule a consultation, you’ll want to know when suing your insurance company is appropriate. Here are a few scenarios that should tell you it’s time to speak with a lawyer.
Your Provider Denies a Claim They Should Approve
Insurance policies outline the types of damage they cover. If your claim is for one or more of those covered incidents, your claim should be approved. If your provider denies your claim even though it’s clearly covered under the terms of your policy, you may be able to file a lawsuit against your provider. This could help get the settlement you deserve so you can repair your home and get life back to normal.
Your Insurance Provider Takes Too Long to Review Your Claim
Under Florida law, insurance providers are required to reach a decision about your claim within 90 days of your initial filing. If they fail to review your claim and issue a decision in a timely manner, you may be able to sue them. This isn’t just a violation of best practices—it’s a violation of state law and your Florida hurricane insurance litigation attorney will be able to help you hold your insurance company accountable for their actions.
You Suspect Bad Faith Efforts
Bad faith efforts involve your insurance company not standing behind their policies’ coverage options, terms, limits, and other similar components. Bad faith efforts could involve an insurance company approving a claim only to refuse to send you the money or denying a claim that is covered under your policy’s terms. If you suspect your insurance company or insurance agent of acting in bad faith, you may be able to bring a lawsuit against them.
Your Actual Settlement Differs From What They Offered
When your insurance provider gives you a settlement offer and you accept it, you’re supposed to receive the money they promise in full. If your insurance company sends you a check for a different amount of money than was promised in the settlement offer, you may be able to sue your provider. If the lawsuit is successful, you should receive the full amount of your original settlement offer at a minimum. Your Florida hurricane insurance litigation attorney will help you figure out your next best steps.
What to Look for in a Florida Hurricane Insurance Litigation Attorney
Working with an experienced Florida hurricane insurance litigation attorney is a must if you’re thinking of filing a lawsuit against your insurance company. Look for an attorney who specializes in insurance litigation and who has experience working on cases like yours. Bring as much documentation and information as you can to your initial consultation.
During those consultations, your attorney will discuss your case, help you determine if you have the grounds for a lawsuit, and give you an idea of what you can expect when you file. They’ll guide you through the entire process and can give you advice on how best to proceed.
Reach Out to Parrish Law
At Parrish Law, our team understands the frustration that homeowners can experience when dealing with insurance providers. We want to help you get the money you’re entitled to and help you hold your insurance company accountable for their actions.
If you’re considering filing a lawsuit against your insurance provider, contact us to schedule a free consultation.