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Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. is a law firm based in Southwest Florida that specializes in personal injury cases, including hurricane insurance claim denials. We have been serving the local community since 1962 and have gained a strong reputation for providing high-quality legal services. If your hurricane insurance claim has been denied in Florida, we can help you navigate the complex legal process. We will review your policy, gather evidence, and challenge the decision made by your insurance company. We can assist you in filing a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services and represent you in negotiations with your insurance company or in court if necessary. Our team of experienced attorneys has a wealth of knowledge and resources to draw upon to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. We understand that a hurricane can be a very stressful and difficult experience, and we will work tirelessly to help you get the best possible outcome. If you live in Southwest Florida and have had your hurricane insurance claim denied, Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. can offer you a comprehensive legal solution. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation to see if we can help you with your insurance claim. When a hurricane strikes, the resulting damage to your property can be extensive. In many cases, people seek the assistance of their insurance company to help cover the costs of the damages. Unfortunately, there are times when the insurance company denies the claim, leaving you unsure of what to do next. If you find yourself in this predicament, here are some steps you can take to help resolve the situation. Review Your Policy The first step when dealing with a denied insurance claim is to review your policy to ensure that the insurance company has acted lawfully. Take time to go over all the details and understand what is and is not covered. This will help you determine if the insurance company has acted within the parameters of the policy. Learn Why Your Claim Was Denied If your claim has been denied, your insurance company should provide you with a reason why. Take the time to understand the reason for the denial. You can then determine whether the decision was lawful or not and what steps you need to take next. Contact Your Insurance Company After reviewing your policy and learning the reason for the denial, contact your insurance company. Let them know that you have reviewed your policy and understand the reasons for the denial. Remember to stay professional and polite during the conversation. Ask them to explain the reason for the denial in more detail and what steps you can take next. Hire an Attorney If you are still unsatisfied with the decision made by your insurance company, you might need to hire an attorney. An attorney can examine your policy, review the evidence, and suggest what steps to take next. Hiring an attorney may be an added expense, but if you can get your claim approved, it might be worth it. File a Complaint You can file a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services if you believe your insurance company has acted unfairly. The department will investigate your case and determine whether the insurance company has acted unlawfully. You can do this by visiting their website or giving them a call. Document Everything It’s essential to keep detailed records and documents of everything that has happened. Save all communication with your insurance company, whether it’s email or phone conversations. Also, take pictures and videos of the damage caused by the hurricane. This will help your case if you need to escalate the matter to an attorney or a government agency. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. is a law firm based in Southwest Florida that specializes in personal injury cases, including hurricane insurance claim denials. We have been serving the local community since 1962 and have gained a strong reputation for providing high-quality legal services. If your hurricane insurance claim has been denied in Florida, we can help you navigate the complex legal process. We will review your policy, gather evidence, and challenge the decision made by your insurance company. We can assist you in filing a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services and represent you in negotiations with your insurance company or in court if necessary. Our team of experienced attorneys has a wealth of knowledge and resources to draw upon to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. We understand that a hurricane can be a very stressful and difficult experience, and we will work tirelessly to help you get the best possible outcome. If you live in Southwest Florida and have had your hurricane insurance claim denied, Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. can offer you a comprehensive legal solution. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation to see if we can help you with your insurance claim.

Due to Hurricane Ian, Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz has extended the Golden Ticket campaign free adoption event to May 2023. Gulf Coast Humane Society after Hurricane Ian Before the storm, which for several days before landfall was expected to impact Tampa or the Panhandle, Gulf Coast Humane Society (GCHS) took in animals from other shelters in Labelle and Glades County anticipated to receive impact from tropical force winds. By the time Hurricane Ian changed course and impacted Fort Myers, GCHS had 175 dogs and cats at the shelter. Five staff members rode out the storm with the animals, concerned about the high winds. Fortunately, all animals were fine after the storm passed, but the facility, fences and grounds were damaged. The cat lanai, which was remodeled earlier in the summer, the breezeway and the animal rehab play area were destroyed. The administrative office roof blew off and went through the windshield of the GCHS’s newest van. The water pressure was impacted when the water line was damaged, and the generator was hit by lightning. Without phones, staff started reaching out via text to partners throughout Florida and as far away as Chicago, San Diego and other parts of the country. By placing animals at other shelters, GCHS was able to bring their animal count down to 20 within two or three days to allow for assessment and repairs to the facility. Animals Impacted by Hurricane Ian After Hurricane Ian decimated Southwest Florida leaving many people without homes, many animals were left homeless, too. New animals are coming in to GCHS that became lost after the storm or from families who don’t have a home to keep them. In five days, GCHS took in 30 animals, with more than 40 scheduled for next week, including owner surrenders and intakes from other shelters such as Lee County Domestic Animal Services. The kennels are filling up each day. Gulf Coast Humane society is calling the newly surrendered animals and the dogs that rode out the hurricane at the shelter the “Hurricane Ian Survivor Crew”, including more than 20 dogs. Pets like Dorlisa, a calm, sweet 3-½ year old terrier mix, and Roxy, a fun-loving and playful 2-½ year old terrier mix with expressive ears. Meet these Hurricane Survivors Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz extends Golden Ticket Adoption Event In recognition of the impact of Hurricane Ian on the community and animals in Southwest Florida, Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz has extended its free adoption event through May 31, 2023. The firm sponsored 60 free pet adoptions in honor of its 60 th anniversary before Hurricane Ian disrupted Southwest Florida, including flooding the firm’s office it has occupied in downtown Fort Myers for 60 years. The adoptions are made possible with “Golden Tickets” that will be distributed at events hosted by the firm and the humane society to people wishing to give cats and dogs at the shelter “furever” homes. To find an event where you can get a “golden ticket” for a free or reduced-price adoption, visit https://www.facebook.com/GoldsteinBuckley/events If you want to support the GCHS financially to support rebuilding the facilities, visit https://gulfcoasthumanesociety.org/donate/

Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz shares Hurricane Ian resources as well as help with insurance claims for hurricane property damage. Here are a few Hurricane Ian resources available to help our community recover. We are heartbroken by the devastation and hardship caused by Hurricane Ian to the community, our staff and our clients. However, we know through 60 years of service that Southwest Florida is a community that supports one another. We share sadness with all who have been impacted but remain resolved to stand with our community to come back strong. General Hurricane Ian Resources FEMA Disaster victims can obtain additional information and apply for disaster assistance through FEMA in several ways. A toll-free number has been established by FEMA for disaster victims to apply for certain types of disaster programs and obtain information about others. Phone: (800) 621-FEMA (3362) FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721. https://www.fema.gov/disaster/hurricane-ian#apply dissasterassitance.gov State Disaster Recovery Center A collaboration with more than 10 agencies, including FEMA, it is designed to provide a one-stop shop for individuals and businesses looking for disaster help. In addition, mental health professionals can offer counseling and support, and five SpaceX Starlinks are in place to provide internet and cellular access. Lakes Regional Library 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Port Charlotte Town Center 1441 Tamiami Trail Open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Additional Disaster Recovery Centers will be opening in the coming days and other areas. Locations will be updated at floridadisaster.org. I nternal Revenue Service has a disaster relief page with additional details on returns, payments and tax-related actions qualifying for the additional time. Hurricane Ian Resources for Businesses Small Business Administration Disaster Loans The Small Business Administration provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from declared disasters. Enterprise Florida For businesses affected by Hurricane Ian, Enterprise Florida has provided a Disaster Assistance Resources Page with state and federal resources available for businesses. Hurricane Ian Resources for Homeowners S. Army Corps of Engineers Operat i on Blue Roof Allows people with roof damage in Lee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Collier Counties to apply for a roof tarp to be provided and installed to cover their damaged roofs until arrangements can be made for permanent repairs. The service is free to homeowners. Crisis Cleanup For assistance with damage from Hurricane Ian, call 800-451-1954 to ask for help. Crisis Cleanup connects residents with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith communities who may be able to assist with: Cutting fallen trees Drywall, flooring and appliance removal due to flooding Tarping roofs Mold mitigation Services are free, but not guaranteed due to overwhelming need. The hotline will remain open until Oct. 28, 2022 Housing Assistance If your family has been displaced, visit FloridaHousingSearch.org. This free, statewide search platform is updated to ensure all listings are accurate and can help you quickly locate an affordable rental property. If you do not have Internet access, you may also call the following toll-free number for assistance in conducting a search: 1-877-428-8844. Hurricane Ian Insurance Claim Help As our community recovers, we are here to help with property insurance claims and helping clients fight insurance companies who deny claims for hurricane repairs. Richard L. Purtz or Chris Smith, managing partners, emphasize personal injury, wrongful death and insurance claims litigation. Purtz was an insurance adjustor before becoming a lawyer. Click here for a free consultation.

Hurricanes can wreak havoc on homes and businesses, leaving destruction and financial losses in their wake. In the aftermath of such a natural disaster, insurance is often the safety net that homeowners and business owners rely on to rebuild their lives and properties. However, the road to recovery isn’t always smooth, as many find themselves facing denied hurricane insurance claims. If you’re in Cape Coral and have had your hurricane insurance claim denied, you’re not alone. Understanding the appeals process and the requirements involved can significantly increase your chances of successfully overturning that denial. The Devastation of Hurricane Damage Cape Coral, located on the southwestern coast of Florida, is no stranger to hurricanes. With its beautiful waterfront properties and scenic landscapes, it’s a prime location for residents and business owners alike. However, living in such a picturesque area comes with its own set of risks, most notably, the threat of hurricanes. Hurricanes are natural disasters capable of causing immense destruction. High winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, and flying debris can lead to significant damage to homes and businesses. In the aftermath of a hurricane, individuals often look to their insurance policies to provide financial support for repairs and rebuilding efforts. Understanding Denied Hurricane Insurance Claims While insurance should provide a safety net for those affected by hurricanes, the unfortunate reality is that insurance companies sometimes deny valid claims. These denials can be for various reasons, including: Policy Exclusions: Insurance policies often contain complex language and exclusions that may not be immediately apparent to policyholders. Certain types of damage or circumstances may not be covered by your policy. Documentation Issues: Failure to provide adequate documentation of the damage or loss can result in a denial. It’s crucial to document the damage thoroughly, including photographs and detailed descriptions. Coverage Disputes: Insurance companies may dispute the extent of the damage or the coverage provided by the policy. These disputes can lead to claim denials. Late or Incomplete Claims: Filing a claim promptly and ensuring it is complete with all necessary information is vital. A late or incomplete claim can be grounds for denial. Misrepresentation: Providing inaccurate information when applying for the policy or during the claims process can lead to claim denials. The Importance of Appealing a Denied Claim Receiving a denial letter from your insurance company can be disheartening, especially when you are grappling with the aftermath of a hurricane. However, it’s essential to remember that denials are not the final word. You have the right to appeal a denied hurricane insurance claim, and doing so can make a significant difference in your recovery. The Appeals Process The appeals process is a mechanism that allows policyholders to challenge their insurance company’s denial decision. While the specifics of the process may vary depending on your insurance provider and policy, here are some general steps to consider: Review the Denial Letter: Carefully read the denial letter to understand why your claim was denied. This will help you address the specific issues in your appeal. Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant documents, photos, and records related to your claim. This includes the initial claim, correspondence with the insurance company, and any experienced opinions regarding the damage. Consult an Attorney: Consider seeking legal representation from experienced hurricane insurance claim attorneys like Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. We can provide invaluable guidance and experience throughout the appeals process. Draft an Appeal Letter: Write a clear and concise appeal letter that addresses the reasons for the denial and provides evidence supporting your claim. Your attorney can help you craft a compelling appeal. Submit Your Appeal: Follow your insurance company’s instructions for submitting an appeal. Ensure that all required documents are included, and keep copies for your records. Await a Response: The insurance company will review your appeal and respond with a decision. This process may take some time. Consider Mediation or Litigation: If your appeal is unsuccessful, you may explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, or pursue legal action through the courts. Legal Assistance for Denied Hurricane Insurance Claims Navigating the appeals process for denied hurricane insurance claims can be complex and daunting. Insurance companies often have teams of adjusters and legal professionals on their side to protect their interests. It’s crucial to level the playing field by enlisting the help of experienced attorneys who specialize in hurricane insurance claims. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. has a long history of representing clients in Cape Coral and the surrounding areas who have faced denied hurricane insurance claims. Our team of dedicated attorneys has a deep understanding of Florida insurance law and the intricacies of hurricane-related claims. We work tirelessly to ensure that policyholders receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. Requirements for Navigating the Appeals Process To increase your chances of a successful appeal for your denied hurricane insurance claim in Cape Coral, it’s essential to meet certain requirements and take specific actions: Timeliness: Act promptly. Insurance policies often have strict deadlines for filing appeals. Missing these deadlines could result in the forfeiture of your right to appeal. Documentation: Keep meticulous records of all communications with your insurance company, including claim submissions, correspondence, and photos of damage. Having a well-documented case is crucial to your appeal’s success. Legal Counsel: Seek legal representation from experienced attorneys who specialize in hurricane insurance claims. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. has a team of attorneys ready to assist you throughout the appeals process. Thorough Appeal: Craft a persuasive appeal letter that addresses the reasons for denial and provides compelling evidence to support your claim. Your attorney can help you draft this letter effectively. Stay Informed: Stay informed about your rights and responsibilities as a policyholder. Knowing what you are entitled to under your policy can make a significant difference in your appeal. Understanding Your Policy In addition to meeting the requirements for navigating the appeals process, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your insurance policy. Insurance policies can be complex documents filled with legal jargon, but taking the time to familiarize yourself with the key provisions can be immensely helpful. Here are some essential aspects of your hurricane insurance policy to consider: Coverage Types: Your policy should clearly outline the types of coverage it provides. This may include coverage for property damage, personal property loss, additional living expenses, and more. Understanding the specific types of coverage you have is vital when making a claim. Policy Limits: Insurance policies often have limits on the amount they will pay out for certain types of losses. Make sure you know the limits of your policy and how they apply to your situation. Deductibles: Your policy will specify the deductible amount you are responsible for paying before the insurance company covers the rest. Different deductibles may apply to different types of losses, so be aware of the details. Exclusions: Insurance policies also list exclusions—circumstances or types of damage that are not covered. These exclusions can vary widely from one policy to another, so review them carefully. Endorsements and Riders: Some policies may have additional endorsements or riders that provide extra coverage for specific situations. Be aware of any endorsements that may apply to your policy. Claims Process: Familiarize yourself with the claims process outlined in your policy. This will help you understand the steps you need to take when filing a claim and what documentation is required. Contact Information: Keep your insurance company’s contact information readily available. In the event of a claim, prompt communication with your insurer is crucial. Facing a denied hurricane insurance claim can be a frustrating and challenging experience, especially in the aftermath of a devastating natural disaster. However, it’s essential to remember that you have options. Navigating the appeals process for denied hurricane insurance claims in Cape Coral requires patience, diligence, and experience legal assistance. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. is here to help you through this difficult time. Our team of dedicated attorneys has the knowledge and experience needed to guide you through the appeals process and fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve. Don’t let a denied insurance claim add to the burden of hurricane recovery. Contact Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. today for a consultation, and let us help you navigate the appeals process and work towards a successful resolution for your hurricane insurance claim. Your recovery and peace of mind are worth the effort.

Has a loved one of yours been abused while under care in a nursing home? Check out these 4 nursing home abuse tips, then give our Florida lawyers a call now. 1. Nursing Home Abuse Case Timeline Resolving a nursing home negligence claim in Florida can be a very detailed process. There are certain laws that set forth certain things procedurally that need to occur at certain steps along the way. It is very fact-, detail- and legally intensive, so making sure that you get the right attorneys involved early is certainly the best way to go about getting that case resolved, but there is so much that goes into one of these cases. You need to make sure that you have the right folks by your side in addressing these issues. Some of these cases can take the long, winding road through the pre-suit process before a lawsuit is filed and ultimately end up going through certain other avenues before we even get to the courthouse to potentially look at a jury trial. These are cases that can and often lag on for some period of time, but it’s important to know that we at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz are here with you every step of the way. We’re here to guide you through the process no matter how short or long it takes, and we are here to make sure that we achieve justice for you. 2. Nursing Home Abuse Case Going to Trial Nursing home negligence cases sometimes go to trial. The vast majority of them get resolved through what is called a pre-suit process that the legislature has put in place that allows certain things to occur where claims are presented, documentation is exchanged, and injuries and damages are fully solidified. Hopefully, your case can get resolved short of a multi-year trek down the road to a jury trial, but there are no guarantees. Nursing home negligence cases can take on many forms depending on the facts and circumstances not only that led to the actual incident or incidents occurring, but also the damages and how this has affected you or your loved ones that you have in the care of these facilities. 3. Reporting Nursing Home Abuse Reporting a nursing home negligence claim starts at the facility. Documentation is important. Once something comes up that you or a loved one experience or hear about, making sure you work through the chain of command and make it known there at the ground level immediately. The next important thing to do is pick up the phone and call an experienced attorney to get in and work with you to document these things and to work through what the legislature in Tallahassee has put in front of folks that want to bring claims for nursing home negligence. There are timeframes and time limits associated with reporting and documenting that you need to keep in mind. Some exist on a much more formal level than simply letting the folks at the nursing home know what is going on. As such, getting out in front of it early on, making sure you’re raising complaints and issues with any and everyone who will listen to you at the actual facility but also reaching out to an attorney to make sure that they are working on your behalf to document this through the appropriate governmental entities are all essential. 4. Nursing Home Abuse Case Value The value of a nursing home negligence claim in Florida is very, very personal to the person that has suffered at the hands of these individuals, these folks, these corporations that we trust to look out for us and our loved ones when they’re at their most vulnerable. The value of the claim depends on many things including what ultimately occurred, how this has affected the person involved in the claim, what damages have resulted, what medical care and treatment was necessary to cure or attempt to cure the failures on the part of the nursing home, what has been missed as far as amenities and things that needed to be present, and how those things (the skilled nursing, the doctors on staff, the people that need to be looking out for us and our loved ones) have gone about causing what most of the time is immense suffering to our most vulnerable. The value of the claim is very comprehensive, based upon the amount and the extent to which the negligence of these facilities, their failure to do what they should and what we expect them to do, has affect the person involved. It, again, includes more than just dollars and cents medical expenses but ultimately what have us and our loved ones had to endure at the hands of these facilities that we have trusted. Has a loved one of yours been abused while under care in a nursing home in Florida and have questions about our 4 nursing home abuse tips? Contact our experienced Southwest Florida nursing home abuse lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation. Like us on Facebook