Florida Insurance Claim Lawyer Blog

With Memorial Day right around the corner, many are making plans for the holiday. Some may be going on vacation and some may be planning a BBQ.

But once the holiday weekend is over, we must prepare for the 2012 hurricane season which officially starts on June 1.

Many native South Floridians have been dealing with hurricanes since they were young children and simply brush off hurricane season without preparation. However, must we remind you of the damage caused by Hurricane Andrew or even the more recent Hurricane Wilma, the second worst hurricane in Florida history?

Advanced preparation is vital because right before a storm hits, supermarkets and home improvement stores are jam-packed with last minute shoppers. Waiting until the last minute on important supplies is especially dangerous because items fly off the shelves and you risk being left without necessary supplies. It also important to stock enough supplies to last you through a storm and beyond.

The National Hurricane Center recommends including these items in your hurricane survival kit:

• Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
• Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
• Non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
• Foods for infants or the elderly
• Snack foods
• Non-electric can opener
• Cooking tools / fuel
• Paper plates / plastic utensils
• Blankets / Pillows, etc.
• Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
• First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
• Special Items - for babies and the elderly
• Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
• Flashlight / Batteries
• Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
• Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
• Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
• Keys
• Toys, Books and Games
• Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
• Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
• Vehicle fuel tanks filled
• Pet care items
• Proper identification / immunization records / medications
• Ample supply of food and water.

We're all used to hurricanes being categorized on a scale from 1-5. However, we may have to learn a new scale that categorizes hurricanes from 0 to 5.99.

Although the National Hurricane Center hasn't stated whether they will endorse the new scale, the Integrated Kinetic Energy ("IKE") scale may be a better predictor of potential destruction from both wind and storm surge. IKE was developed because the current system only takes into account wind speed. However, storm surge is the most devastating element of a hurricane.

For example, the current system rated Hurricane Katrina a Category 3 at landfall, but the surge came in at a Category 5 or higher. In essence, IKE provides a better way of determining the actual consequences from a storm because its takes into account more than just wind.

At the end of the day, it appears that IKE may provide a better way for us to understand potential damage caused by a hurricane. In turn, this allows everyone to better prepare for a windstorm.

We may never see this system being used in the mainstream, so take into account that the current scale doesn't take into account storm surge. If you live in a coastal area, make sure to do your research and find out if your property can be damaged by surge.

Our Florida Insurance Claim Lawyer Blog offers safety tips and other advice to prepare you and your family for a hurricane. If you have not already done so, our Miami storm damage attorneys encourage you to make some basic preparations. Even the busiest among us can tackle hurricane preparation in stages, as we suggest on our Florida Insurance Claim Lawyer Blog. Our Miami Hurricane dispute lawyers are also prepared to assist you with any hurricane damage claim you may have against your insurance company.

Continue reading "Miami Hurricane Claim Lawyers See Advantages in New Hurricane Scale that Places More of a Focus on Storm Surges" »

Tropical Storm Emily was the start of what experts are predicting to be an active hurricane season.

When Tropical Storm Emily was slowly marching towards South Florida, we got our first taste of constant TV updates, satellite images, saw the map with the all too familiar cone in it, and we of course witnessed the unpredictable nature of that cone move east or west every few hours, and otherwise received a reminder of what it is like when a storm is barreling towards South Florida.

Fortunately, Tropical Storm Emily turned out to be a nonevent. However, now that we are in August, the active part of the hurricane storm season is upon us. Please recall that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) forecast for the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico is predicting that we will see between 12 to 18 named storms this hurricane season. They also predict that 6 to 10 of these named storms will become hurricanes. It is also predicted that 3 to 6 of these will become major hurricanes.

Now that we are entering the peak of hurricane season, the remainder of this year's hurricane season is likely to be "bad and busy" according to forecasters.

Consequently, the time is now to prepare and be prepared for the storm season. For starters, and as we have mentioned before, it is important that you review your insurance policy. Be aware of your coverage, and what your deductible may be and what out-of-pocket expenses you are required to pick up in order to get repairs going.

It is also important to ensure that that you have all of your storm supplies in order. For instance, be sure that the big stuff like your roof, storm shutters, garage, and other major stuff of that nature, are in good order.

As we observed with Tropical Storm Emily, a storm could pop up at any time during the height of hurricane season and strike south Florida in a matter of days. We have been extremely fortunate for the past five hurricane seasons. If our luck continues, that would be very fortuitous. But that does not mean that now is not the time to prepare.

Preparation is certainly the key to surviving a hurricane should one strike south Florida this season. Please do no hesitate to contact us should you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding your preparation for hurricane season or if you have questions regarding your insurance coverages. Additionally, please do not hesitate to contact us should you experience any damage to your property as a result of any storm during storm season.

As of this morning, Tropical Storm Emily has maximum sustained winds at near 40 miles per hour. It is anticipated that its center will move across the northeastern Caribbean Sea today and approach the island of Hispaniola as early as tonight.

Emily is projected to head towards Cuba, the Bahamas, and possibly Florida.

Current conditions suggest that Tropical Storm Emily could intensify and strengthened over the course of the next 48 hours. It is not anticipated to approach Florida until the weekend, but by the time does it could be as strong as a hurricane.

Emily Could Strengthen to a Category 1 Hurricane

Forecasters are predicting that Tropical Storm Emily could grow into a Category 1 hurricane, with winds of at least 74 miles per hour according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

A category 1 hurricane is defined as having sustained winds between 74-95 mph. It is a dangerous storm and its winds will produce damage.

Time to Prepare

Our Miami Insurance Dispute Lawyers would like to remind you that now is the time to prepare for Emily's potential arrival later in South Florida later this week.

On this blog we have posted several articles discussing useful tips on preparing for hurricane season. We encourage you to read them, and, more importantly, we encourage you to prepare for the storm's potential arrival. Our lawyers are also prepared to assist you with any hurricane damage claim you may have against your insurance company.

Continue reading "Tropical Storm Emily is Expected to Strengthen Today as it Approaches the Dominican Republic: Miami is in her Sights for Later this Week" »

Our Miami insurance dispute lawyers would like to remind you that forecasters are keeping an eye on a disturbance that could grow into a named storm, Emily, as South Florida enters the height of hurricane season.

And, while forecasting has made great strides in recent years, it is still far from infallible. When Hurricane Charley hit the Fort Myers area in 2004, it did so after making a virtual 90 degree turn at the last minute -- it had been forecast to make landfall far up the West Coast of Florida.

Last year, the National Hurricane Center made changes to the hurricane watch and hurricane warning system that is relied upon by local emergency planning officials and residents alike. The changes provide greater lead time to prepare for the possibility of a hurricane.

The National Weather Service reports that tracking errors have been cut in half over the last 15 years. The issuance of watches and warnings will be made 12 hours earlier this year, which should allow homeowners and emergency officials in the target area more time to prepare.

Tropical Storm Watch: Are now made when tropical storm conditions (winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within 48 hours.

Tropical Storm Warning: Are issued when tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.

Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions (winds greater than 74 mph) are possible within 48 hours.

Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.

Continue reading "Understanding Hurricane Watches and Warnings can Help Protect Homeowners in South Florida" »

So far this year there have been four named storms to date. Any of these storms are strong enough to do significant damage. However, none of them caused any significant impact to South Florida.

Now that South Florida is in the very height of hurricane season it serves as a reminder that tropical depressions are storms with winds of up to 38 mph and are identified only by numbers; tropical storms are given names and have winds form 39 to 73 mph and hurricanes have winds above 74 mph. And so far this year we have had 4 named storms.

From now through November, the chances are good that South Florida will be threatened by named tropical storms or hurricanes. Even a tropical depression can cause wind and water damage while serving as a health reminder that the time to prepare is now, before a serious storm is eminent.

For those who always seem too busy to prepare, our Miami storm damage attorneys recommend readying you and your family in several stages.

Always
-Know and understand your insurance policy, including your exposure to deductibles.
-Keep your important paperwork in water-proof storage containers
-Keep several plastic totes with the following items inside (and clearly marked in a checklist on the outside): manual can opener, disposable plates, silverware and cups, first aid kit, flashlights, battery-operated radio.

Start of hurricane season
-Purchase fresh batteries for radios and flashlights
-Ensure fresh gas is available for the generator and gas grill and that both are in good repair.
-Purchase fresh bottled water (at least 7 gallons per person -- a gallon a day for a week). Buying 20 oz bottles will allow the water to be used at the beach or around the pool after hurricane season.

Hurricane Watch
If you have followed the instructions above, this will be your serious hurricane preparation and it should be pretty simple:
-Fill cars with gas.
-Go grocery shopping
-Gather specialty items, including pet care and child care items.
-Charge cell phones
-Gather rain gear, toys, books and games
-Ensure you have cash on hand to last several weeks.

Hurricane Warning
This means a hurricane is going to strike the area.
-Install storm shutters
-Remove patio furniture and other loose items, including planters, from the exterior of your home
-Ensure you have emergency contact information, including the location of the nearest shelter
-Listen to official instructions or advisories.

Continue reading "Arlene? Bret? Cindy? Dora? The 2011 Hurricane Season Has Seen 4 Named Storms Already While Our Firm Stands Ready to Help Miami Homeowners if a Named Storm Strikes South Florida" »

Hurricane season has been quiet so far. If you were raised in South Florida or have lived here for a few years, you know that hurricanes typically become a major concern in the months of August, September and October. However, that doesn't mean that we won't see a storm in July.

Since 1900 Florida has been struck by three hurricanes in the month of July. The last one happened in 2005 when a category 3 storm struck near Pensacola. On the other hand, numerous tropical storms have struck Florida in July. The last one hit us in 2010.

The reason we don't see many hurricanes striking Florida during this time of year is because of prevailing steering currents that send the storms south or west of Florida. Whenever we do see tropical systems in July they are usually in the Gulf of Mexico because the waters heat up quickly by early summer.

Not only are July storms less common, they are weaker. Since most June and July storms form in the eastern Atlantic they are weaker because they don't have the time to travel across more water. However, during the peak months, the storms tend to be stronger because they develop in the western basin of the Atlantic. This basically gives the storm the whole Atlantic to travel and gain strength.

Although July is a slow month for tropical systems we still need to be prepared. As recently as 2005, three hurricanes developed in the month of July. On this blog, we've taken the time to prepare various posts to make sure our readers properly prepare for a hurricane. Don't just think of the canned food and water. Remember that part of hurricane preparation entails making sure you have all the necessary supplies to survive a hurricane as it strikes, and after, as well to ensure that you have all the necessary information to file an insurance claim in the event your home or business is damaged.

Continue reading "Hurricane Strikes in July are Rare" »

Our society has become very dependent on technology. We often turn to our cell phones, smart phones, tablets, laptops, desktops, and other such devices to find out the latest news, current events, and other pertinent information. Therefore, it stands to reason that if a hurricane were to strike South Florida that we would all turn to our many devices for the latest news and information.

All that reliance on technology begs the question whether or not our infrastructure is set up to handle all that demand should a storm strike South Florida. To handle that load, wireless carriers are turning to time-tested disaster plans - but on an exponential scale.

But will it be enough to handle the 600,000 South Florida households without land lines, plus the seemingly endless appetite to Tweet, Facebook and upload video of the broken trees, gasoline lines, and broken roadways? No one will know for sure until storm hits.

However, the ravaging storms, and tornadoes, that ripped through the Midwest earlier this year provided a sneak preview of what we can expect here in South Florida should a hurricane strike us.

In that part of the country, Facebook became a critical channel to finding lost family members and asking for help. Moreover, with Internet connections down for several days, many in that part of the country turned to wireless telephones for news. Many more also turned to Twitter to spread the word of where to find supplies and emergency stations. The tweets involving emergency stations even included areas where folks could recharge their wireless devices, including cell phones.

It should also be noted that with hurricane season upon us, and should a hurricane strike South Florida, many South Floridians will turn to many new apps for purposes of both tracking the storm and dealing with the storm's aftermath. But that obviously means that many of us will rely on technology more so today than we did in years past. In fact, cell phones are often times the only form of communication immediately after a hurricane strikes.

To prepare for that anticipated heavy usage, major wireless carriers say they have tested equipment and run simulations in South Florida. But while all the wireless carriers state that they are prepared in the event that a major hurricane strikes South Florida, only time will truly tell.

Nonetheless, and in the event that a major hurricane does strike South Florida, the best advice that the major carriers offer is to use your wireless technology sparingly and only when necessary.

Simply put, go ahead and post something short on Facebook or Twitter send a text message, and then get off the phone.

Continue reading "Will Your Wireless Devices Work During and After a Hurricane Strike?" »

With hurricane season upon us, now is the time for all businesses throughout South Florida to properly plan for hurricane season.

It is vital for every business owner or professional to have a disaster plan in place that includes knowing how to assess damage, understanding how to properly file an insurance claim, and make the required repairs to get back to work as quickly as possible. Taking the wrong approach, or simply mishandling your potential insurance claim, could cost you a lot of money with respect to any claim that may ultimately be submitted to your insurance company.

In an effort to aid your hurricane season preparation, here are some suggestions that could assist you during this upcoming hurricane season's adequately prepare.

• Make sure to copy and safely store your pertinent documents. For instance, make sure you have a copy of your property and casualty, as well as a copy of your business interruption insurance policy, and a copy of your lease agreement. You should maintain hard copies of these important documents in the event of a long-term power outage, but you should also store these documents digitally and off-site in a secure electronic environment. You should also safely store these documents in a manner that will allow you to gain very quick access to them in the event of a catastrophe.

• You should also safely make the appropriate arrangements to have copies of your last four years of income tax returns, and the last six months of your profit and loss statements safely secured. You'll need the financial data in the event that you have to make a business interruption claim, and you will need physical copies of these documents should you not be able to gain access to them electronically.

• Keep an updated account of your inventory, and print that out as well. Be sure to inventory all of your office supplies such as computers, desk, chairs and paper since you can recover those losses. You should photograph all of these items as well.

• If you rent space, then it is imperative that you keep a copy of your lease agreement in a safe place along with all of the aforementioned other documents.

• Make sure to take photographs and/or video of your entire workspace, including your inventory and office supplies.

• Make sure to collect emergency contact information for all of your employees, suppliers, and vendors.

• Work with your senior staff to prepare a plan for a storm, fire, flood or other emergency. What are the contingencies that will allow you to get back to work quickly, and what are the variables that will prompt a long term shut down. Who will be in charge of getting your network back up? Who will be in charge of contacting your major clients? Who will be in charge of handling your insurance claim? Assigning these responsibilities in a calm environment prior to a storm striking will only aid the smooth transition to get back to work after a storm strikes South Florida.

• If you own the property, hire a licensed inspector or contractor to examine the roof, interior and other structural components in advance to the store. You do not want the insurance company to deny your claim by saying that your property had pre-existing damage. The best way to combat that argument is to conduct the appropriate inspection today.

• Prepare a list of preferred contractors that you can call on for all necessary repairs. Don't wait for the insurance company to find someone. If the storm was a catastrophe, then that aid will be difficult to come by. Indeed, it will be incumbent upon you to repair your damages, and the best way to do that is to contact a contractor today and make arrangements to insure prompt repairs after a storm strikes out Florida.

Continue reading "Is Your Business Ready for Hurricane Season? " »

Forecasters are predicting another above normal hurricane season in the region. Therefore, it is critical to be prepared as this year's hurricane season gets underway.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) forecast for the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico is calling for 12 to 18 named storms. They predict that 6 to 10 of these named storms will become hurricanes. It is also predicted that 3 to 6 of these will become major hurricanes.

The forecasters believe that unusually warm water in the Atlantic Ocean is the major reason why we should expect a busy hurricane season. The impact of the La Nina climate pattern may also contribute to the hectic season.

We should give credence to this forecast because it is similar to an earlier prediction coming out of Colorado State University that calls for 16 storms in the Atlantic basin. Also, NOAA forecasts for named storms have been on point in 6 out of the last 11 years.

Luckily, hurricanes are not surprises like tornadoes, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Because of this, we have ample time to prepare. Don't become complacent and prepare for a hurricane, especially since its predicted to be a busy season. Preparation will help protect your family and home from danger.

Indeed, history suggests that South Florida is due for a hurricane strike. Therefore, this is certainly not the season to take lightly. We've been spared the last few years, but this could be the year where we are hit by another hurricane. Hurricanes are a fact of life living in South Florida. Although inevitable, they are not surprises like earthquakes or tsunamis. You can prepare and be ready for a hurricane.

Considering the increased odds of South Florida getting hit by a storm you should take the necessary steps to safeguard your property and family. One exercise that is a must is a review of your insurance policy to determine what is excluded from your policy. Most importantly, review what you're supposed to do in the event your property is damaged in a windstorm. You should also check the financial strength of your insurance company, and stock up on food supplies.

Continue reading "Federal Forecasters are Predicting that the 2011 Hurricane Season will be an Active One" »

Florida's streak of good luck may come to an end this hurricane season. The odds are simply not in our favor. History simply tells us that South Florida is due.

Statistics show that the coastline from Key West all the way to Palm Beach County averages a category 1 hurricane every four to five years. With Mother Nature sparing us the last 5 years, we are at a great risk of being struck by a storm.

Most preseason forecasts predict a slower season than 2010. However, this should not comfort anyone because 2010 had 19 named storms which is tied for third-highest number on record. However, the number of storms doesn't matter. What matters most is the path a hurricane will take.

This is certainly not the season to take lightly. We've been spared the last few years, but this could be the year where we are hit by another hurricane. Hurricanes are a fact of life living in South Florida. Although inevitable, they are not surprises like earthquakes or tsunamis. You can prepare and be ready for a hurricane.

Considering the increased odds of South Florida getting hit by a storm you should take the necessary steps to safeguard your property and family. One exercise that is a must is a review of your insurance policy to determine what is excluded from your policy. Most importantly, review what you're supposed to do in the event your property is damaged in a windstorm. You should also check the financial strength of your insurance company, and stock up on food supplies.

Even though you may prepare to file a potential claim, it doesn't guarantee your insurance company is going to treat you fairly. They could outright deny coverage for no good reason or even try to skimp on what they are supposed to pay out.

Don't let an insurance company pull a fast one on you. If they do, don't hesitate to contact Alvarez & Barbara, LLP, for help. We successfully handle insurance claims on a daily basis and achieve favorable results on their behalves.

Continue reading "History Suggests that South Florida's Run Without a Hurricane Strike May End This Hurricane Season" »

In the post Hurricane Wilma world in South Florida, many homes and many grocery stores now have generators installed that make a power outage following a significant hurricane a mere inconvenience.

If you recall, long power outages lasted throughout South Florida, and there were long lines at any gas stations, and grocery stores, where many individuals were forced to buy basic supplies such as water, ice, and food, following Hurricane Wilma.

One of the main lessons learned from Hurricane Wilma is to be adequately prepared in the event that a significant storm strikes the region.

That is one reason why many commercial establishments have invested money, and resources, over the past few years installing generators in the event that a storm strikes South Florida.

Nonetheless, and despite the presence of an increased number of generators in both homes and commercial establishments, now is the time to get ready for the 2011 hurricane season.

And one of the most important things to do in preparation for the upcoming hurricane season is to ensure that you have an adequate plan to make sure that you have all the available food and supplies on hand in the event that a hurricane does strike South Florida.

It is recommended that one start with seven days worth of food and water for your family. One gallon of portable water per person per day is required for drinking and cooking, and you should have on hand a 7 day supply of water.

It is also important to secure a certain amount of food your family is going to eat during those days following a hurricane. As for food, it is also very important to secure food items that your family will actually want to eat, because your family will get very bored of tuna sandwiches after a few days.

Also, be sure to stock up on all the food groups. For instance, you will need to stock up on foods that contains the necessary proteins (peanut butter, nuts, chili beans, vienna sausages etc.), dairy (canned milk, pasteurized processed cheese spreads, etc.), starch (canned, corn, vanilla wafer, graham crackers, pretzels, bread, etc.), as well as fruits and vegetables.

Of course, you're also going to need to stock up on supplies to eat all that food. So make sure to also stock up on aluminum foil as well as disposable paper towels, aluminum pans, plates and silverware. Damp wipes, and garbage bags, will also come in handy.

And of course, don't forget that can opener and bottle opener!

Continue reading "Stock Up on Food Supplies in Preparation for Hurricane Season" »

Whenever a hurricane makes landfall in a densely populated area, such as South Florida, the last thing you want to be without is a form of communication. Therefore, it is imperative to be prepared.

These days, a cellular phone will be the most likely way we will communicate with the rest of the world during and after a hurricane.

However, simply having your cell phone available for use is not enough. More steps need to be taken to ensure that you are ready for any event which may arise. For example, you should keep your cell phone battery charged at all times. Its also important to have a backup plan to recharge your battery in case there is a power outage. A good alternative is to charge your phone by using a car charger or having extra batteries at hand.

During any storm, the biggest threat to your cell phone is water. Water will likely damage a cell phone, so keep it safe by storing it in a plastic bag or some other type of protective covering. You should also make sure to save all necessary emergency contact numbers and emails. These numbers should include the police department, fire station and hospital as well as your family members.

If you have a camera phone, that's great. Be prepared to take photographs, even video, of any property damage. Having photographs and/or video will help you in the event you file an insurance claim.

Taking photographs is of the utmost importance because your insurance company will ask you for photos of the damages to your property. Without these photographs, your insurance company is going to give you a tougher time with your claim as it makes it more difficult to prove damages without a photograph or video. As such, have your camera phone ready for use after a hurricane.

Sometimes providing photos and other requested documentation is simply not enough for an insurance company. Even with photos an insurer may treat you unfairly or mishandle your claim. At Alvarez & Barbara, LLP, we have the experience and knowledge to represent individuals, businesses, and community associations who are having difficulties with their insurance claim. In the event you feel you are being mistreated by an insurance company, don't hesitate to contact us.

With Memorial Day right around the corner many are making plans for the holiday. Some may be going on vacation and some may be planning a BBQ. But once the holiday weekend is over, we must prepare for the 2011 hurricane season which officially starts on June 1.

Many native South Floridians have been dealing with hurricanes since they were young children and simply brush off hurricane season without preparation. However, must we remind you of the damage caused by Hurricane Andrew or even the more recent Hurricane Wilma, the second worst hurricane in Florida history?

Advanced preparation is vital because right before a storm hits, supermarkets and home improvement stores are jam-packed with last minute shoppers. Waiting until the last minute on important supplies is especially dangerous because items fly off the shelves and you risk being left without necessary supplies. It also important to stock enough supplies to last you through a storm and beyond.

Here is what the National Hurricane Center recommends you make a part of your hurricane survival kit:

The National Hurricane Center recommends including these items in your hurricane survival kit:

- Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
- Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
- non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
- foods for infants or the elderly
- snack foods
- non-electric can opener
- cooking tools / fuel
- paper plates / plastic utensils
- Blankets / Pillows, etc.
- Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
- First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
- Special Items - for babies and the elderly
- Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
- Flashlight / Batteries
- Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
- Telephones - Fully charged cell phone with extra battery and a traditional (not cordless) telephone set
- Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards - Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
- Keys
- Toys, Books and Games
- Important documents - in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag
insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
- Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
- Vehicle fuel tanks filled
- Pet care items
- proper identification / immunization records / medications
- ample supply of food and water.

Continue reading "Get Ready for the 2011 Hurricane Season" »

According to news reports, we should get ready for a hectic hurricane season this year due to higher surface water temperatures. Also, South Florida is at a greater risk to be hit by a storm than in years past. Their meteorologists predict we will see 15 named storms. Of those, 8 should become hurricanes and 3 should become major hurricanes - meaning they will be at least Category 3 storms.

This is considered busy because the average season will bring 10 named storms, six which will become hurricanes and two of those being major hurricanes. Although the US was spared in the busy 2010 season, two storms caused enough damage that their names will never be used again.

Forecasters don't like to make landfall predictions, but they are able to say that certain areas may be more prone to being hit by a hurricane this year. South Florida, Texas, and the Carolinas are being pinpointed as areas where chances of landfall are greater.

It's certainly frightening to hear that South Florida is at great risk year to be struck by a hurricane. We've been spared over the last few years, but hurricanes are a fact of life in South Florida. Although this often leads us to brush off hurricanes, it's important to be prepared.

One way of ensuring that you're prepared is to make sure to having everything in place to contact your insurance company in the event of a windstorm because we have a duty to immediately notify our insurers of a loss. Whatever you do, and no matter how slight the damage, call your insurer if your home has been damaged by a windstorm.

However, there are times when immediate notice is still not enough because an insurer will treat their policyholder unfairly by wholly denying a valid claim or by not fully covering their insured's loss. Realizing that most people are unaware of their rights, insurers may take advantage of their policyholders.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you believe that your insurance company is treating you unfairly, don't hesitate to contact Alvarez & Barbara, LLP. We have considerable experience dealing with insurance companies and working to make sure our clients get what they are owed.