Hurricane Claims FAQs

What is the difference between a hurricane and a tropical storm, and does that difference affect my ability to collect insurance money for damages?

A tropical storm forms at sea with a large low-pressure center and numerous thunderstorms that produce strong winds and heavy rain. Even though it is not a hurricane, a tropical storm can still inflict heavy damage on homes and businesses due to wind, rain, storm surges, mud, mold and debris.

A tropical storm becomes a hurricane when the winds reach at least 74 miles per hour. Using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale, forecasters can measure a hurricane’s intensity and convey the potential impact of hurricanes. Based on this information they are placed into one of five categories. A Category 1 hurricane is the weakest, packing 74-95 mph winds, while a Category 5 storm is the strongest, with winds in excess of 155 mph.

Regardless of whether your property damages are inflicted by a hurricane or a tropical storm, your insurance policy may cover repairs and rebuilding costgs. However, the Houston-based hurricane insurance lawyers at Arnold & Itkin LLP will review your policy in close detail and let you know of any potential issues. We have extensive experience in battling insurance companies, and we have a record of securing successful verdicts and settlements for our clients throughout Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and Florida. Our firm recovered more than $250 million for our clients in 2011. For a free consultation, call us at 877-398-4972 or use our convenient online form.

At Arnold & Itkin, we are experienced trial lawyers and aggressive advocates for our clients. Our attorneys quickly assess the strengths and weaknesses of each individual case and map out a strategy for winning. Once you meet the legal team at Arnold & Itkin LLP, you will understand why H Texas magazine in Houston named Arnold & Itkin LLP "Top Lawyers for the People" three years in a row and why Texas Monthly has consistently recognized our attorneys as “Rising Stars.”