It’s extremely important to be prepared for a storm before it hits. As a senior, it can be difficult to mobilize quickly and spring into action. That’s why proper planning is that much more important in your later years.
In order to stay safe during a storm, there are some things you’ll want to consider in advance. Below are some tips that will help you to stay safe when a storm hits…
Determine If You Can Shelter at Home or Need to Leave
The first determination will be whether you can shelter at home or if you need to evacuate. For some storms, you may be able to simply take extra precautions and stay indoors. For other events, you will need to leave.
It’s important to keep in mind that the orders can change at any moment. That’s why it’s critical to have a battery-powered or crank radio so you can stay informed—especially if the electricity goes out. You can also check your local news and keep an ear open for sirens. Consider both your local Emergency Alert System (on TV and radio), along with NOAA Weather Radio. You can also check out www.nws.noaa.gov for more updates.
Considerations for if You Need to Evacuate
If it is determined that you need to evacuate, you’ll want to do so efficiently and safely. Some considerations include:
- Travel plans
- Emergency supplies (first aid, medication, etc.)
- Clothing that is appropriate for more intense activity (if you need to walk should your car break down, for instance)
- Cash
- Food and water for the road
- Securing your home (windows, sandbags outside, doors, etc.)
- Pet supplies
Disaster Resources
There are some amazing resources you can take advantage of during a disaster. It’s important to have a list prepared of these resources before the storm hits, though. You don’t want to scramble to gather this information once the internet and electricity goes down.
Look for public shelters. Organizations like the Red Cross will often set up emergency shelters to help those in need. They will also provide food, some first aid, and more. You will also want a list of hospitals and health centers, should an injury occur.
File Your Insurance Claim
Property damage after a storm can be very difficult to deal with. If you have insurance, though, you can file and be reimbursed for the damage that is covered. In order to get the most out of your insurance claim, make sure you document all of the damage. This includes taking photos and videos, along with noting all the damage in writing. When you file, consider hiring a lawyer like the ones provided by Colucci Law Group (which specializes in filing this sort of paperwork). This will help to ensure you get the payout you deserve.
Whether you hire a lawyer to help file or not, make sure you save all of your communications with your insurance provider. This may include recording phone calls.
What If My Insurance Company Denies My Claim in Bad Faith?
After you file, your insurance company will take a look at the claim and—if you filed properly and on time—pay you what you are owed. With that said, your insurance company may decide to deny your claim in bad faith. If this happens, reach out to Colucci Law Group.
Colucci Law Group consists of legal experts that provide clients with support to fight bad faith claim denials. We will provide you with an expert property insurance lawyer to represent you in a suit against your insurance provider. We are also able to file your claim for you and defend your rights, so you get the settlement that you deserve.
For more information about our property insurance legal services, reach out today. We’d be happy to help you to file your claim or represent you in a lawsuit against your insurance provider.
If you suspect that you are the victim of a bad faith insurance claim denial, we can help. The Colucci Law Group has the resources to assess the validity of your claim at no cost to you. For a free consultation, email us or call our Dunedin office at 727-733-9438. You may also call our Fort Myers office at 239-378-7800. Our team assists victims of bad-faith insurance claims across the state of Florida.