Derecho Storm Claims

The Damaging Effects of a Derecho Storm 

Texas homeowners may be prepared for tornadoes and hurricanes, but another weather event can be just as devastating. Derechos are fast-moving windstorms that form along squall lines. These destructive storms can extend for more than 240 miles and produce sustained winds of over 100 miles per hour.  

Because a derecho involves straight-line winds, it is not classified as a tornado. Nonetheless, homes and other properties can sustain significant damage due to these winds. People who do not find shelter are at risk of severe or fatal injuries from flying debris. 

On May 16-17, 2024, Houston Derecho hit the Gulf Coast with 100 mph winds causing $1.2 billion in damage and hundreds of thousands without power.  

Texans endured large hail and high winds again on May 28, 2024 from East Texas derecho. This storm caused damage across the state from Dallas-Ft. Worth to Houston and Western Louisiana.  

Who Pays for Derecho Storm Damage? 

A property owner who sustains losses related to a derecho can submit a claim to their insurer. As long as their policy covers derecho wind damage, the insurance company must pay the claim up to the policy’s limits. But instead of promptly paying these claims, some insurance companies try to find ways to escape their responsibilities. 

The destruction caused by a derecho can be substantial, especially in populated areas where thousands of policyholders may be affected. An insurance company might pay hundreds of millions of dollars in claims after just one event. To protect its bottom line, the company may try to deny or underpay these claims. 

Insurance Bad Faith: What Is It and Why Does It Matter? 

Insurers with no legitimate reason for denying claims or delaying payments are said to be acting in bad faith. Other examples of bad faith include canceling a policy because a client filed a claim after a storm event. There are legal consequences for insurers who engage in this behavior. 

Unfortunately for policyholders, proving that an insurance company is acting in bad faith can be difficult. These companies will not readily admit that they are breaking the law.  

To demonstrate an insurance provider’s bad-faith actions in court, a lawyer must scrutinize communications and internal documents from the insurer and then use this evidence to build a compelling case that the insurer acted unethically. 

What a Texas Derecho Storm Attorney Can Do in Your Case 

Has your insurance provider unfairly denied or underpaid your claim from the 2024 derecho storms? When you partner with a storm damage attorney at Brasher Law Firm, PLLC, you’ll have the legal representation and resources you need to combat unscrupulous insurance practices.  

Recognized by the Texas Trial Lawyers Association as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer, attorney Clint Brasher has dedicated his career to representing homeowners like you for over two decades. He has also experienced the frustration you are feeling firsthand when he fought his own insurer after Hurricane Rita damaged his property.  

At Brasher Law Firm, PLLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not owe us any fees unless we obtain additional compensation from your insurer. We are ready to devote our knowledge and resources to getting you the repair money you deserve. We’re here to answer any questions you have about your specific claim, call us at 855-592-5980 or use the contact form below to get started for your free consultation.