watched the people in Florida struggle after the last hurricane, and know it is just a matter of time until something hits us here in Mobile.

I talked to a few Florida friends over the Thanksgiving holiday, and they wanted me to make sure you were knowledgeable about homeowner’s insurance before that big one hits. When it does, you will need the money insurance provides.

So here I go.

Yes, your homeowner’s insurance will generally cover strong wind damage. BUT the deductible can be different, usually a percentage of the amount paid. Check your policy; I have seen anything from 1 to 5 percent.

Here is the trickiest part. Most of the damage you will receive is from flooding. Your policy may not cover that. So, get flood insurance. There are often two different types of policies … one for your stuff and one for your house. Get both. If not, you may get the money to replace your belongings and have no place to put them or have a place to call home but no couch, dishes, beds, refrigerator, etc., to help make it livable.

If the President declares our area a state of emergency, you can apply for disaster assistance from the federal government. But do you really want to rely on that happening? Take care of yourself and get insurance.

Now you must get hurricane related insurance before the storm comes. In fact, most insurance companies will stop selling policies once a storm is named.

Don’t be afraid to call a lawyer if you think the insurance company is behaving badly. You paid the premiums, and they need to provide the money to get your life back in order.

If you are hurt in a traffic accident or suffer a personal injury, you can talk to us at the  Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie  for free. We want to help you get back on your feet.

Also join us on  NBC 15 LawCall  here in Mobile every Sunday night at 10:30 right after the news. We do a short show on tape during the football season but will take your calls live again after the first of the year.

Allen Ritchie

Alabama personal injury lawyer

The post Learn From Florida: Insurance Payouts and Bad Weather first appeared on Steele Ritchie.