Bradenton First Party Storm Damage Lawyer

With the number of hurricanes that Florida has been hit with in recent years, it’s not surprising to think that first party storm damage claims are on the rise. It’s important to understand what first party claims are and what they potentially may or may not cover in Florida. If you have questions or need to pursue a storm damage claim, you need to speak with a knowledgeable Bradenton first party storm damage lawyer who can help you understand what the next steps are.

What is a First Party Claim?

First party claims are where you are making a claim directly against your own insurance policy. A third-party claim is when you make a claim against someone else’s liability coverage. With first party claims, it’s your own insurance policy that is expected to protect you in the event of a loss to your own property, hence why it’s called a first party claim. Third party claims often involve vehicle accidents where you pursue the at-fault driver for your property damage and injuries.

In some cases, there may be situations where you are allowed to assign your first party benefits to a third party, often the contractor who is conducting the repairs on your property.

First Party Storm Damage Coverage

As each hurricane season approaches, Bradenton residents hope they are not in the path of destruction. It is not only hurricanes that Floridians may be facing when it comes to storm damage. There can be wind from storms of lesser intensity, lightning strikes, hail, floods, fire damage, and even tornadoes.

Each year, these losses cost insurers millions of dollars in first party storm damage claims. If you purchase a homeowner’s policy, you assume that you have coverage in the event of a storm. Unfortunately, your coverage doesn’t always pay out, and it’s important to look at the policy terms closely to understand exactly what will be covered.

If your insurer is denying coverage, you need a Bradenton personal injury attorney who can help look over your policy and determine the scope of your coverage. You may have a bad faith or breach of contract case against your insurer.

What is a Bad Faith Claim?

First party bad faith claims can arise when an insurer doesn’t pay their policyholder the benefits they deserve, or they engage in stall tactics, or offer a lowball settlement amount. In Florida, you have the right to pursue a claim against your insurer for failing to honor their duties per the policy language in their own contract. When you pursue a first party bad faith claim against your insurer, you may be entitled to reimbursement of attorney’s fees and court costs as well.

Contact a Bradenton Personal Injury Lawyer

It’s important to contact an attorney right away as this can help strengthen your position and ensure your rights are protected. Your attorney can preserve evidence as soon as he or she becomes involved in your case, which is critical in a first party claim. If you have been unfairly treated by your insurance company in regard to a first party storm damage claim, contact The Pendas Law Firm today at 844-200-0000 to schedule an initial consultation.