We have weathered storms along the gulf coast since 1913, and are here to help you and your family recover from hurricanes and tropical storms. If you have questions regarding what you should do to collect information and submit an insurance claim, our attorneys are ready to assist you with a free consultation.
As business and property owners, we know well the importance of making thorough and aggressive claims to an insurance company. Find a copy of your insurance policy and call us at 850.433.6581. Now more than ever, Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon is right by your side.
There are many things to think about as you are preparing for the hurricane season. Your home, supplies, evacuation routes, and this year, the implications of COVID-19. We’d like to encourage you to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your business from any potential harm. Let our team of board-certified attorneys help you mitigate hurricane issues so that you have peace of mind knowing you are prepared.
ESC CAN HELP REVIEW AND PROVIDE GUIDANCE ON ALL STORM-RELATED ISSUES, INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:
1. Insurance policies for storm damage coverage and related rights and responsibilities
2. Potential liabilities for condominium associations
3. Consult on exercising powers for community associations
4. Construction risk for storm events
5. Leases, business documents, purchase agreements, and other contracts regarding force majeure, insurance, maintenance, and liability provisions.
Following social distancing guidelines? No problem. We are ready to assist you through virtual or phone appointments. Call us today at 850.433.6581.
A hurricane is a tropical cyclone, which generally forms in the tropics and is accompanied by thunderstorms and a counterclockwise circulation of winds. An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher
Tropical cyclones are classified in two ways, a tropical depression and tropical storm:
Tropical Depression: An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph or less.
Tropical Storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph.
HURRICANE SUPPLY KIT
Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
Food – at least enough for 3 to 7 days for each person
non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices / snack food
Radio – battery operated (weather radio is recommended)
Cash – banks and ATMs may be closed
Walkie-talkies / hard line phone (powered by the phone line directly)
Keys – house / car / safe deposit box / storage facility / etc.
Toys, books and games
Important documents – in a waterproof container
insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
Tools – keep a set with you during the storm
Vehicle fuel tanks filled / fill extra tanks for generator use
Pet care items
proper identification / immunization records / medications
ample supply of food and water
a carrier or cage
leash
FAMILY DIASTER PLAN
Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
Locate a safe room or the safest area in your home for each hurricane hazard. In certain circumstances the safest areas may not be your home but within your community.
Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet (rally points); including a child’s school, a neighbor’s home or other public place.
Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact. Have at least 2 ways of contact; e-mail, phone, etc.
Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
Check your insurance coverage – flood and wind damage may not be covered by homeowners insurance.
Check your insurance limits of liability.
Stock non-perishable emergency supplies within your hurricane supply kit.
Use a weather radio. Remember to stock replacement batteries.
Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.
