Tornado Claim Attorney in Louisiana
Being left in the wake of a tornado can be a harrowing experience. Not only can tornado-strength winds damage your home, but they can also cause injury to you and your family. Even though only about 2 percent of tornadoes are violent to the point of devastation, even relatively “weak” tornadoes—with wind speeds up to 110 mph—can cause significant damage to your home and grounds.
On average, about 1,200 tornadoes occur across the United States each year, resulting in fatalities and millions of dollars in damage. Even if you don’t live in a high-risk tornado state like Kansas or Nebraska, strong and violent tornadoes can occur virtually anywhere. As if going through a tornado is not bad enough, imagine how you will feel if your insurance company delays your claim, undervalues the claim, or denies it altogether. This is a time when you need a strong legal advocate in your corner. When you contact a Louisiana tornado claim attorney from Gulf Coast Insurance Attorneys, you can be assured that your insurance company will not take advantage of you or engage in bad faith practices.
Our tornado claim lawyer in Louisiana can protect your interests from start to finish, making sure your insurance company holds up its end of the bargain. Reach out online or call (504) 438-4507 today.
How Common Are Tornadoes in Louisiana?
Tornadoes can and do occur in the state of Louisiana, according to 973thedawg.com, usually touching down between the hours of 3 and 4 in the afternoon, and averaging about 300 feet wide, traveling a path of about four miles. Fox8live.com reports that the number of tornadoes each decade has been increasing in the state of Louisiana since 1950. This phenomenon is generally attributed to warmer Gulf waters. Between 1950 and 1973, there were about 17 tornadoes each year in Louisiana. By the 1980s, this number had jumped to 33 per year, and since 2010, there are an average of 55 tornadoes per year, with a record-high of 103 tornadoes in the state in 2018.
This increasing trend in tornado frequency underscores the importance of having robust insurance coverage to protect your home and assets. Residents need to be prepared not only for the potentially devastating effects of tornadoes but also for the complications that can arise during insurance claims. Our team is here to ensure you are appropriately compensated and that your insurance policy terms are fully honored. By understanding the typical tornado patterns in Louisiana, we can better anticipate and address the common issues policyholders face in these situations.
What Types of Damage Can Tornadoes Cause?
Tornadoes are unpredictable, taking out one home, but leaving others intact.
There are many different types of damage a tornado can cause to your home and property, but some are more common than others, including:
- Structural Damage in the form of roof and wall collapse or de-stabilization is common, as are broken windows and doors, and foundational issues.
- Electrical Damage can result from tornadoes, in the form of downed power lines, or short-circuits caused by flying debris. Power surges resulting from a tornado can damage delicate electronic equipment in your home.
- Damage to Your Personal Property including furniture, appliances, electronics, artwork, clothing, household goods, and other things inside your house is common. If you live in a tornado-prone area, make sure you have anchored heavy items like bookcases to the wall, and if you are expecting high winds, bring outdoor furniture inside.
- Fallen Trees can cause roof damage, siding damage, and window and door damage.
- Roof Damage can be damaged, or torn completely off a home during a tornado.
In addition to these direct impacts, secondary damage, such as water intrusion following roof damage or mold growth due to lingering moisture, can further complicate recovery efforts. Mitigating these effects often requires immediate action and detailed documentation, both of which can strengthen your insurance claims.
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How Hiring a Tornado Claim Lawyer in Louisiana Can Help You Move Forward
When you speak to a Louisiana tornado claim attorney from Gulf Coast Insurance Attorneys, you can rest assured that we will always treat you honestly and fairly. We will fight for your rights and your future, never ignoring your phone calls, and always ensuring that you are apprised of the progress of your claim. If you are unable to meet with us, we will arrange to meet you at a more convenient location. If our regular business hours are not convenient for you, we will arrange a time that works for you.
At Gulf Coast Insurance Attorneys, you can rest easy, knowing our Louisiana tornado claim attorney can fight aggressively for what you need and deserve. Contact Gulf Coast Insurance Attorneys today.
FAQs About Tornado Claims in Louisiana
What Should I Do Immediately After My Home Is Damaged by a Tornado?
Immediately following a tornado, ensure the safety of all household members first. Once safe, document all damages with photos and video from various angles. This visual record is crucial for your insurance claim and will assist your attorney in building a strong case for compensation. Contact your insurance company promptly to report the damage and initiate the claims process. Keep a detailed record of all communications, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with. Avoid disposing of any damaged property until your insurance adjuster has assessed the damages, as this could be vital in the verification process. Additionally, seek temporary housing if necessary; your insurance policy may cover these additional living expenses. Communicating clearly and promptly with your insurance company and seeking legal advice to guide you through the process can significantly impact the success of your claim.
How Can I Ensure My Tornado Claim Is Not Undervalued by My Insurance Company?
To avoid having your claim undervalued, it is important to provide comprehensive documentation of all damage incurred. This includes a detailed inventory of damaged property, with accompanying valuations where possible. Hiring an independent adjuster can be beneficial as they represent your interests and provide an unbiased assessment of the damage and required repairs. Additionally, be proactive in challenging low valuations by comparing them with market rates for repair and replacement in the local Louisiana area. It can also be helpful to consult with an experienced attorney who is familiar with insurance practices and can advocate on your behalf. This legal support ensures that your claim is fairly reviewed, and you receive the appropriate compensation to cover all expenses related to tornado damage.