In 2016, South Carolina was hit with Hurricane Matthew, which was the first Category 5 hurricane since Hurricane Felix. Reaching wind speeds of up to 168 miles per hour, the hurricane originated from the Carribean Sea and hit multiple areas throughout South Carolina. Most notably damaging the coast of the state, Hurricane Matthew moved through Florida, North Carolina, and California in addition to South Carolina.

The hurricane resulted in nearly 600 deaths total, and tons of damage throughout the state. Multiple homes and businesses were affected, as well as downed power lines that resulted in much of South Carolina losing power for an extended period of time. After the hurricane passed, it took months to rebuild from what was destroyed as a result of the storm.

Hurricane Insurance in South Carolina

Because of the frequency of hurricanes that hit South Carolina, many homeowners have homeowners insurance to cover potential damages that might affect their homes following a storm. Homeowners insurance typically protects against having to pay for damages from wind, rain, and fallen objects as a result of the storm. Most often, roofing and siding on homes are deeply affected by hurricanes, but there is potential for much more damage to personal property in the most severe cases.

Homes that are closer to the shore in South Carolina are more expensive to cover for homeowners insurance given their propensity for damage following hurricanes and tropical storms. That being said, it is important to understand what all is covered by your insurance plan ahead of natural disaster strikes. This way, you can submit a legitimate claim following damage to ensure you get coverage as soon as possible.

Bad Faith Insurance Claims in South Carolina

According to South Carolina insurance law, insurance providers are required to handle claims submitted in good faith. This requires them to handle all legitimate claims submitted reasonably, including providing a response in a specified amount of time, and only denying a legitimate claim with a reasonable response. 

When insurance providers do not follow these laws, the insured person should contact an insurance lawyer immediately. Contacting an insurance lawyer allows them to identify where your insurance provider is acting unlawfully, and assist you in any legal proceedings.

The law offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A., have expert South Carolina insurance lawyers available to support you as you move forward with a potential lawsuit against your insurance provider. These insurance attorneys are experienced in insurance law and can work with you to get the coverage you deserve to begin rebuilding your property and home.