Hurricane Helene Lawyer

Every hurricane season, there is usually a storm or two that causes damage to homes in that area. Hurricane Helene was the kind of storm that caused lots of damage to people and their homes across a massive area. If you were directly impacted by the storm, you may be grateful to be alive. However, your insurer may make it difficult for you to file a claim to get your property repaired, making the need for legal help essential.

Hurricane Helene has left significant property damage in its wake, presenting challenges for homeowners seeking compensation from insurance companies. Navigating claims and understanding legal rights can be daunting. Hiring a property damage lawyer ensures that individuals have professional support during this complex process.

A knowledgeable lawyer specializing in hurricane-related cases provides crucial assistance in dealing with the insurance company, preparing necessary documentation, and advocating for fair compensation. Larry Moskowitz’s expertise can make a substantial difference in the outcome of claims.

Natural disasters don’t just affect property; they also disrupt lives. Enduring a storm of this magnitude is a traumatizing experience since your neighborhood or community may have suffered immense levels of destruction. You’re likely exhausted from surviving the hurricane and trying to pick up the pieces of your life. By working with a lawyer, those affected can focus on recovery, knowing that their legal matters are being handled by professionals dedicated to achieving the best possible results for their clients.

Photo of Hurricane Damage

The Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Helene made landfall late at night on September 26, 2024, as a category 4 storm in the Big Bend area of Florida, about 20 miles northwest of where Hurricane Idalia made landfall one year prior. Florida’s Big Bend area was still not fully repaired from the previous assault of Idalia, and other areas along the Gulf Coast were still recovering from Hurricane Ian two years ago.

Unfortunately, severe devastation has arisen from this major storm as it moved through Florida and plowed into other Southern states, making its way northward through the country. While those in Florida had to battle with strong winds and storm surge, those located northward were subjected to heavy winds and torrential rainfall. 

Major hurricanes such as Hurricane Helene leave survivors with damaged property, including broken windows, missing roofs, and completely flooded or washed away homes. Beyond losing much of what they own, many homeowners and business owners have to grapple with the claims process. Filing insurance claims is their chance to get their hurricane damage covered. However, when insurance companies issue claim denials despite the evidence, it takes an experienced hurricane insurance lawyer who knows the laws surrounding property damage claims to fight back.

Areas Affected by Hurricane Helene

Florida’s Gulf Coast incurred significant Hurricane Helene damage. Much of this was caused by a record-breaking storm surge as it moved rapidly roughly 100 miles from the west coast of the state. Inland counties fared slightly better, though those who were still recovering from Ian’s wrath received further damage.

Once the storm made its way into the Big Bend, things got worse for the state of Florida. Many people are still without electricity and are struggling to contact their insurance company to file an insurance claim.

Hurricane Helene moved northward, causing upheaval in Georgia, where wind damage and heavy rains caused serious damage from Augusta to Valdosta. Both North Carolina and South Carolina were affected as well but North Carolina took the brunt of it, with flooding wiping out entire towns in the western portion of the state. Helene also caused issues for residents in Tennessee and even left affected areas in Indiana and Ohio. 

Damage by State

Florida: When Helene made landfall, it had winds of 140 mph. The storm was also massive in size, covering a broad swath of land. The NHC issued tropical storm warnings for most of the state due to Helene’s large size despite not all of Florida being in the direct path of the hurricane. It brought tropical storm conditions to other locations far from the center.

Georgia: Governor Kemp likened the destruction to that of a bomb explosion. Georgia has reported that many homes have been reduced to mere splinters. Highways were impassable due to debris.

Tennessee: The dams in this state were strained by torrential rains, threatening to send creeks and rivers flowing over their banks.

The Carolinas: Road closures were caused by all the destruction. While South Carolina experienced heavy downpours and some flooding, North Carolina’s western counties were isolated due to flooding and landslides. Main roads, including I-40 and I-26, were shut down, leaving parts of the state inaccessible by car. 

The outlook is extremely grim and those with hurricane damage will need to file a property damage claim with their insurance company. However, before you contact your insurance company, contact our property damage attorneys to assess your insurance policy and assist with your insurance claim.

Understanding Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Property and Hurricane Insurance Claims

Hurricane Helene caused significant damage, particularly in Florida and the Gulf Coast, disrupting daily life and affecting infrastructure before plowing northward to cause further destruction. The storm’s impact was widespread, with many areas struggling with the aftermath of wind and flood damage of shocking magnitude.

Assessing the Scale of Damage

Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction with high winds and flooding. Properties across affected regions experienced damage to roofs, windows, and exteriors.

Insurance claims soared as homeowners sought reparations through their insurance providers. Local authorities reported a substantial increase in emergency repairs. Power outages, debris, and water damage from severe flooding were common, necessitating long-term recovery efforts. Repair crews faced challenges due to the extensive nature of the damage, requiring strategic planning and resource allocation.

Regional Damage Analysis: Focus on Florida

Florida bore the initial brunt of Hurricane Helene’s assault. Coastal towns saw significant damage, with storm surges inundating properties and infrastructure.

Inland areas were not spared, experiencing severe flooding and wind damage. Key urban centers reported high volumes of insurance claims due to Hurricane Helene filing, with our area among the hardest hit. Response efforts included state-level emergency measures and federal assistance to facilitate recovery and support affected communities.

Collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies aimed to restore normalcy. The storm prompted a critical analysis of disaster preparedness and response strategies to mitigate future risks.

Legal Recourse for Hurricane Helene Property Damage

You buy insurance policies to protect your property when it is damaged. This coverage is something you buy, hoping you will never need to use it. With Hurricane Helene insurance claims surging, many legal concerns may arise, including low payouts or claim denials, even when supported by evidence. 

Property owners affected by Hurricane Helene can seek legal remedies to recover losses. Effective legal strategies include hiring an experienced property damage lawyer. Larry Moskowitz specializes in helping victims navigate insurance claims and other legal challenges.

If you have been issued a denial letter or your insurance adjuster is claiming they won’t cover your property damage claims because your insurance policy doesn’t include them, you should speak with a hurricane damage lawyer before proceeding with your insurance claim. Insurance companies tend to act in bad faith after tremendous losses caused by hurricanes.

You may have flood insurance to cover flooding yet they may attempt to refuse to make the necessary repairs to the water damage in your home. 

Hiring a Property Damage Lawyer to Handle Your Insurance Claim with the Insurance Company

Engaging a property damage lawyer is essential when dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. A lawyer with expertise in property damage litigation can evaluate the extent of your losses and assist in preparing a comprehensive claim. This process often includes gathering proper documentation, presenting evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing clients in court if necessary.

Lawyers familiar with hurricane-related claims understand the nuances and insurance adjusters’ tactics. Larry Moskowitz ensures that property owners receive the compensation they deserve by assessing all available legal avenues. His guidance is crucial to achieving a favorable outcome, reducing the stress involved in the claims process, and ensuring the insurance company honors your claim promptly. 

How Larry Moskowitz Can Assist Victims

Larry Moskowitz, a seasoned property damage attorney, offers valuable support for victims of Hurricane Helene. His extensive experience in handling similar cases equips him to provide effective representation. By focusing on individual client needs, he tailors his approach to maximize compensation efforts.

Larry assists clients from the initial claim filing through to the final settlement. His strategic negotiation skills help in securing fair settlements, while he also prepares for litigation if the case requires court intervention. His commitment to client advocacy ensures that property owners receive the best possible outcome. His profound understanding of insurance law is an asset to those impacted by the hurricane.

You and your family have likely endured enough hardship, stress, and trauma from the storm. The sooner you can have your property repaired and restored, the closer you will be to returning to normal again. Larry is an experienced lawyer who has seen the tactics of insurers following major weather events over the years. With legal assistance provided by Larry and his legal team, you will have someone advocating for your fair treatment. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your Hurricane Helene damages and learn more about your legal options.