Elsa Becomes First Hurricane in 2021 Season
We are now in full swing with Hurricane season as the Nation Hurricane Center has named its first hurricane, Elsa. It is now more important than ever to make sure you and your loved ones are safe and prepared. Although each hurricane is different, the wind speeds brought with them can be devastating. As such, the damages brought with these wind speeds tend to be similar within each category. Here is what you can expect with each category windspeed:
Cat. 1: 74-95 mph winds --> some missing shingles with minimal tree debris
Cat. 2: 96- - 110 mph winds --> increase missing shingles, flying debris which can damage windows, broken siding, fallen and leaning trees
Cat 3: 111-129 mph winds --> blown-in windows, lifting of roofs, smaller fallen trees
Cat 4: 130-156 mph winds--> large flying debris, primarily shingles missing, most shingles fallen, extreme interior flooding from rain intrusion
Cat 5 157+ mph winds --> catastrophic damage to the structure of the home
How to Prepare for a Hurricane
It is essential to protect yourself in the event of any of the category hurricanes noted above. As such, each individual should take the following precautions:
1. Ensure all exterior furniture, tools, and or toys are stored indoors or tightly tied down.
2. If possible, trim trees and large shrubs back to avoid damage to your property.
3. In the event of a major hurricane (Category 3 or above), make sure you have secured your home. This can include boarding up windows and placing sandbags around the exterior doors.
4. If you choose to ride out the storm, make sure you have plenty of potable water, and adequate lighting should the power go out.
5. During the passing of the storm, head to the interior room of the property, where it is the safest. Make sure to stay away from all exterior windows and doors.
6. Do not leave the house until the storm has passed. At which point, proceed with caution as there may be downed power lines or ruptured gas lines.
7. Use common sense and your best judgment. Staying safe is the key.
If Your Home is Damaged During a Hurricane or Storm
Our property damage and hurricane damage attorneys understand firsthand the struggles property owners face when navigating their hurricane and property insurance claim. Additionally, we know the pitfall and traps associated with storm claims. Our attorneys have worked on both sides of the aisle and provide a wide range of knowledge that allows our attorneys to promptly and vigorously advocate on our clients' behalf.
Rather than try and navigate these times alone, let our office help you and take the burden off your shoulders. Insurance companies are not in the business of helping others but instead are in the business of making money. As such, it is essential to have someone represent you, someone who is willing to fight the good fight. Should you or someone you know need assistance with your hurricane or property insurance claim, please give our office a call for a free consultation. We'd love to help you.
We don't get paid unless your case is settled or won.
Call our team of aggressive hurricane lawyers at 727-333-7093.
