Have you ever wondered how a hurricane could affect your car accident claim?
In Florida, hurricane season is a fact of life. Between June and November, the threat of tropical storms and hurricanes hangs in the air—bringing more than just wind and rain. These storms disrupt daily life, complicate commutes, and create dangerous road conditions that can lead to serious car accidents.
But beyond the immediate risks, few people consider what happens after a storm-related crash. How will your insurance company respond? Will your claim be processed like any other? And what if you’re injured?
Here’s what every Florida driver should know.
Why Car Accidents Are More Likely During Hurricane Season
Storm conditions create a perfect storm of driving hazards. From the Treasure Coast to Port St. Lucie, here are a few of the most common reasons crashes spike during hurricane season:
- Reduced visibility: Heavy rain makes it hard to see brake lights, road markings, and hazards.
- Flooded streets: Cars can hydroplane or become stranded in water. Even shallow flooding can lead to loss of control.
- Debris on the road: Tree branches, trash bins, and even downed power lines can force drivers into dangerous maneuvers.
- Evacuation traffic: When storms approach, highways clog up. Drivers are often distracted, in a hurry, or unsure where they’re going.
Even cautious drivers can find themselves in risky situations.
How Hurricanes Complicate Insurance Claims
Filing a car accident claim is never fun, but it gets even more complicated during and after a storm. Here’s why:
1. Fault Isn’t Always Clear
Was the crash caused by another driver, or by storm debris in the road? When several factors are in play—weather, road conditions, and human error—it can be harder to prove liability. Insurers may argue that the storm was to blame, not the other driver.
2. Insurance Companies Are Swamped
After a major storm, insurance carriers are flooded with claims—vehicle damage, property loss, flooding, and more. That can mean slower response times, longer waits for adjusters, and delayed payments.
3. Disputes Over Coverage
Did your car flood during the storm? That may fall under comprehensive coverage. But if you crashed into another vehicle during poor weather, it may be treated differently under your collision policy. The details matter, and sometimes policies don’t offer clear answers.
4. Total Loss Disagreements
If your car is declared a total loss, the value your insurer assigns might be less than what you expect. After widespread storm damage, car values, repair costs, and availability of parts can all impact your claim.
What to Do If You’re in a Storm-Related Crash
The moments after an accident can be overwhelming. Here are a few steps to protect yourself and your claim:
- Call 911 and seek medical care if needed.
- Take photos or video of the scene, including road conditions.
- Get contact information from any other drivers or witnesses.
- Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Don’t admit fault, even casually.
- Keep a copy of your insurance policy handy so you know your coverage.
Need Legal Help After a Storm-Related Accident?
Hurricane-related accidents are rarely simple. Between the weather conditions and the added stress on insurance systems, many drivers end up feeling stuck—especially when their claim is delayed, denied, or underpaid.
That’s where legal help can make a real difference.
At Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd, we’ve helped clients across Port St. Lucie and the Treasure Coast navigate the aftermath of storm-related car accidents. We understand how insurance companies work—and how to hold them accountable when they delay or dispute valid claims.
Let our experienced attorneys protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our offices today for a free consultation. Call (866) 930-6435 or reach out online. We’re here when you need us most.