With the devastating strength and power these hurricanes were bringing, the last thing on anyone’s mind was these hurricanes throwing additional blows to areas that seemed outside of their “cone.” However, those of us that went through Hurricanes Harvey and Irma (and even those watching from areas outside those directly affected) recall all the news … Continue Reading
As I noted in my previous blog, Business Interruption Will Play Big Role in Rebuilding the U.S. Virgin Islands After Irma, the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands is staggering. To make matters worse, the powerful northeast eyewall of Hurricane Maria is now bearing down on the islands with what are … Continue Reading
As I watched Hurricane Irma coverage on CNN, following the landfall in Naples, I was reminded of a problem many insureds faced following Superstorm Sandy: “Is the water the result of flood or rain?” While Naples was in the eye of the storm, CNN showed a six block stretch of water covering streets where rain … Continue Reading
Many of our recent blogs—before Hurricane Irma made landfall—discussed hurricane preparedness. In those posts, we urged insureds to have their insurance policies handy so they would have the pertinent information to notify their insurance carrier of their loss.… Continue Reading
The U.S. Virgin Islands holds a special place in my family’s heart. Nothing makes my wife Ashley and I happier than a sail full of trade winds carrying us to the next secluded cove or rowdy beach bar. While most of the national media focused on Hurricane Irma’s trek toward Florida, it is now clear … Continue Reading
Florida Governor Rick Scott issued the following Emergency Order to assist consumers during the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Please make sure you review it closely. As always, I am here to answer any questions you may have.… Continue Reading
The Florida Keys are like no other place I have lived. It’s island living with the southern hospitality you find throughout the mainland. Although the island life is what first attracted us to the Florida Keys, it was our neighbors and other Keys locals that convinced us we would have a second home in the … Continue Reading
On Friday, I took a deposition from our Tampa office via video conference questioning an adjuster in Charlotte. At about 1:45 pm, Erin Dunnovant rushed in our boardroom to tell me the office building and our entire area was being evacuated. I had to suspend the deposition and grab my computer. Opposing counsel said they … Continue Reading
Many forecasters called for Hurricane Irma to stay five to ten miles off Florida’s west coast. This would expose us to the worst winds and historic flood surge. One quirky and dedicated hurricane expert, Bobbi Storm, called for mainland landfall in Naples. IRMA LANDFALL …MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CITY .. NAPLES … MOVING N TMOBILE DOWN … Continue Reading
Merlin Law Group attorney and former Insurance Consumer Advocate Sean Shaw spoke to Mitch Perry at FloridaPolitics.com about Hurricane Irma’s approach to Florida. The full article is reprinted below:… Continue Reading
One lesson I learned from Hurricane Katrina was to take your insurance papers with you when you leave. If a major storm surge hits, the local insurance agency is going to get hit as well. It may wash away or not open for weeks. Owners of property may find their own property washed away along … Continue Reading
Most Floridians are making their last minute preparations for Hurricane Irma and protecting their property from potential damage. In addition to having enough batteries, flashlights, bottled water, food, medications, and pet supplies, you want to make sure your important documents are in a safe, waterproof and easy to access location. This includes your homeowners insurance … Continue Reading
Over the years, the Merlin Law Group’s Blog has provided hurricane advice and assistance. I wrote a blog in advance of Hurricane Matthew, Quick Tips and Useful Links – Hurricane Matthew. My colleague, Nicole Vinson, posted a blog, Don’t Ignore Warnings of Tropical Systems.… Continue Reading