ARE HOMEOWNERS LIABLE FOR NATURAL DISASTER INJURIES?
It’s hurricane season in New York and some Long Islanders were hit with a small storm last night. Storms, hurricanes, tornadoes could have an impact on homeowners. Natural disasters don’t wait until everyone is safe in their home or a public building to strike. You could be enjoying time with friends at their house or need to take shelter during travels. If you suffer an injury at someone else’s home or property, you may wonder how you will pay for medical bills, the cost of rehabilitation and time off from work. The Sanders Firm is here to help.
Homeowner’s Insurance and Natural Disasters
Natural disasters, including hurricanes, tornadoes, lightning strikes, severe storms, floods and earthquakes, are considered natural disasters. No one can foresee or prevent the damage caused by these occurrences. Homeowner’s and renter’s insurance are the first two places many individuals look after a natural disaster, but these two forms of insurance may only offer limited coverage after a natural disaster.
All insurance policies are negotiated using a “standard risk measurement.” Natural disasters often fall outside of those categories, and some homeowner’s insurance policies may not cover any injuries or damage associated with the disaster. Every insurance policy varies slightly. Homeowners should look closely to see what types of damage and injuries are covered after a natural disaster.
Many insurance companies do not cover flood damage, and others may limit the amount of compensation a policyholder or injured individual can collect. Both residents and guests who suffer during an incident may find some financial relief from these types of insurances, but it may not fully cover the associated costs.
When a Homeowner or Third Party Is Liable for a Visitor’s Injuries
Proving homeowner or third party liability after a natural disaster is difficult but not impossible and that is why you will need a skilled attorney to help. The Sanders Firm understands these cases and the responsibilities of property owners and insurance companies. Property owners are required to reasonably address foreseeable hazards in and around the home. When they fail to do so or to warn visitors of the hazard, they are liable for any resulting injuries. For instance, if a friend comes over for dinner and a heavy wind gust in a storm knocks a tree over, hurting the individual, the homeowner may be liable. If the tree was dead or a hazard prior to the weather event, injury liability is the responsibility of the property owner.
An injured individual may also hold a product manufacturer or a construction/installation company liable for an injury in some cases. For example, if a wooden beam falls in a garage during a hurricane and a subsequent investigation shows the beam was not reinforced according to building code, the construction crew may shoulder the responsibility for any resulting injuries.
How The Sanders Firm Can Help
If you suffer an injury after a hurricane, tornado, flood, or other natural disaster on someone else’s property in New York State, you may have access to compensation through a homeowner’s insurance policy. In addition to helping you investigate the proximal cause of your injury, here’s how we can help:
- The Sanders Firm will represent you during a lawsuit – In conjunction with negotiation with insurance providers, The Sanders Firm will likely pursue an alternative case to prove negligence on the part of a homeowner or a third party.
New Yorkers need to know that after a natural disaster, you may need a skilled, compassionate attorney to help secure compensation and defend your rights. The Sanders Firm has successfully handled these types of cases for over 50 years and will make sure that you do not suffer with the consequences of an injury that was out of your control. Our team will help you determine the right course of action to secure the treatment and compensation you deserve.
Contact The Sanders Firm at 1.800.FAIR.PLAY
