During hurricane season in August of 2018, Hurricane Lane stormed Hawaii with strong winds and plenty of rainfall. The hurricane totaled over 55 inches of rain, ranking as the first Category 5 hurricane of three in 2018. Forming from a low pressure area southwest of Mexico, the hurricane hit Hawaii. Over 150 buildings and other structures were destroyed as a result of the strong storm, as well as multiple power lines resulting in a loss of power in many areas of the islands. Repairs for the hurricane nearly took a year to complete, leaving many people to find new places to live while rebuilding.

Hurricane Insurance in Hawaii

Hawaii has particularly strong hurricane seasons that often result in the damage or destruction of multiple areas. This can leave many in a poor situation following a serious hurricane, ruining their place and leaving them displaced for a period of time.

This is why hurricane insurance is a necessity in the state of Hawaii. Hurricane insurance is supplemental to home insurance, covering wind-related damage as a result of these significant storms. It is important to note that, while this type of insurance does cover some damage directly caused by hurricanes, homeowner insurance policies do not cover floods. Backed by the government through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), homeowners can apply for flood insurance to protect them from damage to their homes following these destructive storms. 

Insurance Coverage Gone Wrong

After your home has been affected by a hurricane, the first thing you want to do after confirming you and your family is safe is document the damage done to your home. Photographs of the damage done, as well as receipts and other proof of your expenses may all be shared with your insurance company as you assemble your insurance claim for coverage. 

Though your insurance company is meant to help you through difficult times like these, there are cases where some people have been treated unfairly and unlawfully by their insurance companies. If this happens, it is best to contact an insurance lawyer immediately.

Sometimes, insurance companies will ignore first-party claims, or provide no evidence as to why a claim is denied. This can be incredibly frustrating and leave homeowners at a loss for what to do next. If you experience this type of deception from your insurance company, be sure to reach out to an insurance attorney immediately to help you with next steps.

The law offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A., have experienced Hawaii insurance lawyers available that understand what is deemed unlawful in relation to bad faith insurance claims. These insurance lawyers can advocate on your behalf through difficult claims processes that result in unlawful action on your provider’s behalf. They will help you work to get the coverage you need to rebuild after being hit by a natural disaster.