How to Be Legally Prepared for the Next Hurricane

Being legally prepared for a hurricane goes beyond stocking up on supplies or securing your property. Especially if you are a homeowner or parent, from insurance claims and property damage to dealing with landlords or contractors, there are a multitude of legal issues that can arise after a natural disaster. If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to contact one of our New Orleans property damage lawyers.

Louisiana Is Hurricane Territory

For those who are new to the Pelican State, here are some eye-opening statistics about what you can expect when hurricane season (summer) hits:

• Louisiana has experienced an average of 2.8 hurricanes per year over the past century, making it one of the most hurricane-prone states in the United States. (Source: National Weather Service)
• Louisiana ranks third among all US states for the number of recorded hurricane landfalls since 1851. (Source: National Hurricane Center)
• On average, Louisiana experiences storm surge flooding during hurricanes that exceeds six feet in height in over 50% of all coastal parishes. (Source: Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness)
• In recent years, Louisiana has seen an increase in rainfall associated with hurricanes. The state experienced its wettest tropical cyclone on record with Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which dumped over 60 inches of rain in some areas. (Source: National Weather Service)

Prepare a Power of Attorney, Will, and Living Will

When you have time to prepare for a natural disaster like we do with hurricanes, it’s crucial to have your affairs in order. As New Orleans property damage lawyers, we recommend preparing a power of attorney, will, and living will. A power of attorney designates someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself. A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets after your death. A living will, also known as an advance healthcare directive, specifies your preferences for medical treatment in case you become incapacitated and cannot communicate your wishes. Having these documents drafted and executed ahead of time ensures far less headaches during a hurricane or other emergency situation.

Check Your Life, Home, and Car Insurance Coverage

Review your current insurance policies as part of your hurricane preparedness. Ensure that your home insurance policy adequately covers the potential damages caused by hurricanes. Look for coverage options that protect against wind, flooding, and storm surge damages. Evaluate your car insurance policy to verify if it covers any hurricane-related damages or losses. Finally, assess your life insurance policy to ensure your beneficiaries are adequately protected in the event of a hurricane-related tragedy.

Tax Relief for Natural Disasters

During a hurricane or other natural disaster, the IRS typically offers specific tax relief options to affected individuals and businesses. Review the tax relief list of disaster situations provided by the IRS on its website. You’ll want to be aware of potential tax breaks or extensions, as they can provide significant financial relief during the recovery process. Consult with your tax professional to get a better understanding of the tax implications of natural disasters.

Keep Your Legal Documents in a Waterproof Case

In times of emergency, having all your legal documents organized and safe in a portable, waterproof lockbox is highly recommended. Be sure this box contains important documents like a form of ID, birth certificate, social security card, insurance policies, wills, and power of attorney forms. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to keep digital copies of these documents stored securely on cloud storage as well.

General Hurricane Preparation Tips

It never hurts to refresh yourself on some general hurricane preparedness tips:

• Make a plan for evacuation and have a meeting place for family members.
• Trim trees and bring outdoor items indoors.
• Stay informed by following NOAA Weather radio or local news channels.
• Obey all evacuation orders from authorities.
• Move cars to higher ground or place it up on risers or lifts.
• Fill up gas tanks, charge cell phones, and have a generator and fuel ready.
• Unplug appliances and store them away from doors and windows.
• Prepare an emergency kit with essentials.
• Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect windows and doors.
• Secure wall hangings and elevate art off the floor.
• Identify a shelter room without windows on the first floor of the house.

Common Home-Owners Insurance Misconceptions Regarding Hurricanes

Property damage after hurricanes is something our office at Egenberg Trial Lawyers handles. Because of that, we see New Orleans homeowners step into insurance loopholes far too often. Here are a few of the most common ways we see homeowners eat their losses after a hurricane:

• Water Backup: Damage caused by water backup from sewer or drain is generally not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. Consider adding this coverage to your policy for enhanced protection during a hurricane.
• Evacuation Expenses: Homeowners insurance policies rarely cover expenses related to mandatory or voluntary evacuation during a hurricane. Consider purchasing additional coverage for these situations.
• Flood Damage: Many homeowners mistakenly believe that their standard home insurance policy covers flood damage caused by hurricanes. However, flood damage typically requires a separate flood insurance policy.
• Wind Damage: While homeowners insurance usually covers wind damage, some policies may have restrictions or separate deductibles for hurricane-related wind damage.
• Tree Removal: Homeowners insurance policies typically cover tree removal if the tree falls and damages covered property. However, if a tree falls and does not cause any damage, the policy may not cover its removal.

Read your insurance policies and know exactly where and how you are covered.

New Orleans Property Damage Lawyer: When the Worst Happens, Call the Best

The New Orleans property damage attorneys at Egenberg Trial Lawyers can help you put your home back together after a hurricane when your insurance company is giving you the run-around. Contact our office now to set up a free legal consultation with one of our lawyers who will be happy to answer all of your questions.