As the 2025 hurricane season begins, what you need to know legally includes how to prepare for possible damage, insurance delays, and legal deadlines that could affect your recovery. Louisiana residents face serious risks during hurricane season, and legal help can make all the difference.
Lawyers who have experience handling storm-related claims can walk you through deadlines, help you with paperwork, and fight on your behalf when insurance companies don’t treat you fairly. If you’ve dealt with storm damage in the past, you know how confusing and stressful the process can be.
From understanding your insurance policy to knowing your deadlines, there’s a lot to track as hurricane season starts. Our storm loss lawyer in Lafayette will handle the legal challenges of your claim so that you don’t go through it alone. You can call for a free consultation today.
Why Legal Guidance Matters During the 2025 Hurricane Season
Storms don’t just bring wind and rain—they also bring legal problems. After a hurricane, people can face many kinds of challenges, including:
- Denied insurance claims
- Delayed payments
- Disputes over how much damage was done
- Pressure to sign quick settlements
You might also face issues with your landlord, your job, or local contractors. Having a lawyer on your side means someone will review your rights, speak up for you, and help gather evidence when things get tough.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientUnderstanding Your Insurance Policy Is a Good Place to Start
Before the first storm forms in the Gulf, review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.
The key points to review include:
- What’s covered: Wind, water, and flood damage may fall under different parts of your policy, or they might not be covered at all.
- How to file an insurance claim: Know what steps to take, and keep a copy of this info in a safe, waterproof place.
- Deadlines: Many policies have short windows for filing a claim. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
If something isn’t clear, our Lafayette personal injury lawyer will review your policy with you. A small step now can save you time and money after a storm.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientKnow the Louisiana Legal Deadlines for Storm-Related Claims
In Louisiana, most personal injury and property damage lawsuits now have a two-year statute of limitations under CC Art. 3493.1. That means if your home or property is damaged in 2025, you likely have until 2027 to take legal action.
Still, we encourage you not to wait. Some legal deadlines may still be shorter, depending on your case. Additionally, it is harder to gather evidence months after the storm. Reaching out for legal advice sooner rather than later can help you stay ahead of deadlines and prepare your case effectively.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientKeep Good Records Before and After the Storm
Strong legal cases often come down to good documentation. Here are ways you can protect yourself:
Before the storm:
- Take photos of your home and valuables.
- Save receipts for recent purchases or repairs.
- Keep a copy of your insurance policy in a waterproof folder or digitally.
After the storm:
- Take new photos of the damage.
- Keep records of any cleanup or repair work.
- Write down the names and dates of those you spoke to at your insurance company.
Good records give your lawyer proof of what was lost and how much it’s worth.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientDon’t Sign Anything Without Reading It Carefully
After a storm, some companies or people may try to take advantage of your stress or confusion. Be careful of:
- Quick insurance offers: Don’t accept the first check without knowing if it covers all your damage.
- Contractor agreements: Make sure any work contracts you agree to are clear and fair. You should avoid cash-only deals and ensure your contract is in writing.
- Waivers or releases: Take care to review these, as they could stop you from taking legal action later.
You can let our attorney from our team read over anything before you sign. What looks simple could cost you more in the long run.
How to Respond if the Insurer Denies or Underpays Your Claim
Insurance companies sometimes delay or deny valid claims. You may feel like you’re being ignored or told your damage isn’t covered.
If that happens, our hurricane claim lawyers in Lafayette and throughout Louisiana will:
- Review your denial letter
- Challenge the insurance company
- Help bring in independent damage experts
- Fight to get you the money you deserve
You don’t have to settle for less than what your policy promises.
Legal Challenges You Could Run Into After a Hurricane
Below are some legal problems people often face after a hurricane:
- Flood damage not covered: Many people don’t realize that flood insurance is separate from windstorm insurance.
- Roof and structure disputes: Insurance companies often argue whether damage was caused by wind or water.
- Lost income: If you missed work because of storm damage, you might be owed more than you think.
- Injury claims: Falling trees, broken glass, or unsafe conditions can lead to injury claims if someone else was at fault.
Our experienced lawyers will explain your options and help you act before time runs out.
What to Expect From a Free Consultation About Storm Damage
If you’re unsure where to start, many law firms—including ours—offer free consultations. Here’s what you can expect:
- We will listen to your story and ask questions about your damage or injury.
- You will get answers about your rights and what steps to take.
- There’s no cost and no pressure to move forward.
- A free consultation offers a chance to learn your legal options with zero risk.
Laborde Earles Will Help You Prepare for the 2025 Hurricane Season
If you are preparing for hurricane season or dealing with storm damage, Laborde Earles is ready to help. Our Louisiana-based team has recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for people across the state. We work on contingency, so you don’t pay unless we win your case.
With over 350 years of combined experience, we know what it takes to fight for you. Whether you need help with an insurance claim, an injury, or storm-related property damage, we will explain what you need to know legally about your situation and handle it from start to finish.
Our lawyers are part of your community. With a family approach, deep local roots, and a strong sense of care, we treat every client like our team member. When disaster strikes, you deserve a legal team that stands by you. Call today for a free consultation.
